could be cat tails? Is that a fairly wet spot?
also that grass just under the ruler is a nasty little weed, be sure to pull it out too.

yes, cattail.

In the desert? Hmmmm.

looks like cat tails to me. I have some in my pond and the grow like weeds.

When can I expect 'tails'? Then, do I even want them?

You don't really want cattails in your pond. They will crowd out other pond plants and all you will be left with is a real pretty stand of cattails.