Cattails (Typha latifolia and T. angustifolia) are among the most iconic and recognisable pond marginal plants in the world, prized for their tall, sword-like foliage and distinctive brown, cylindrical seedheads that persist well into winter. This large-sized variety makes a bold, dramatic statement at the water's edge, ideal for bigger ponds where strong vertical structure and a naturalistic feel are the goal. Cattails are easy to grow and remarkably hardy, thriving in shallow water at a depth of 5 to 30cm. Their seedheads and stems also provide nesting material and nutritious food for birds, making them a superb choice for wildlife ponds.