Organic and nitrogen removal efficiencies in subsurface horizontal flow wetland system (HSF) with cat-tail (Typha augustifolia) treating young and partially stabilized solid waste leachate were investigated. Hydraulic loading rate (HLR) in the system was varied at 0.01, 0.028 and 0.056 m(3)/m(2) d which is equivalent to hydraulic retention time (HRT) of 28, 10 and 5 d. Average BOD removals in the system were 98% and 71% when applied to young and partially stabilized leachate at HLR of 0.01 m(3)/m(2) d. In term of total kjeldahl nitrogen, average removal efficiencies were 43% and 46%. High nitrogen in the stabilized leachate adversely affected the treatment performance and vegetation in the system. Nitrogen transforming bacteria were found varied along the treatment pathway. Methane emission rate was found to be highest at the inlet zone during young leachate treatment at 79-712 mg/m(2) d whereas CO(2) emission ranged from 26-3266 mg/m(2) d. The emission of N(2)O was not detected. (c) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.