Found
along marshes, lakes, and streams. In early spring the roots
are edible and choice. They can be pealed and eaten raw, but
Survive Outdoors strongly suggests boiling. It can be served
with butter and seasoning to increase the flavor. The pollen
of cattails can be shaken into bags and dried and used as
a protein rich flour for cooking.
Cattails at this stage with the brown tops can be soaked
in kerosene and used as torches for light. Although the burning
time may be short, it is a useful light source. Dried tops
also make a great tinder for starting fires.
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