Narrowleaf Cattail (Typha angustifolia), also known as Lesser Cattail, is a tall, perennial wetland plant found throughout North America, Europe, and parts of Asia. Although not a true grass, it is functionally similar to pastoral and wetland grasses and belongs to the Typhaceae family. It grows in shallow water and saturated soils along ponds, marshes, ditches, and slow-moving waterways.

This species is easily identified by its slender, upright leaves—narrower than those of Typha latifolia—and its tall, brown cylindrical flower spikes. Unlike its broadleaf relative, Typha angustifolia often colonizes deeper water and forms dense stands through its vigorous rhizome system.

Ecologically, Narrowleaf Cattail is important for shoreline stabilization, water filtration, and wildlife habitat, supporting birds, amphibians, and aquatic insects. It is also used in wetland restoration and phytoremediation projects. Its fast spread and tolerance for brackish water make it both a valuable and sometimes invasive species in wetland environments.