About
A dense, clump-forming, evergreen perennial, with hollow, jointed, upright, green stems to 1m, banded in black.
About the genus
Equisetum are also known as horsetails or living fossils as they are the only living genus in Equisetaceae, a family of vascular plants which reproduce by spores rather than seeds. Plants have a rush-like appearance.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisturePoorly-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing, North-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeAquatic, Bogs
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, Patio and container plants, City and courtyard gardens
Care notes
CultivationGrow in fertile, permanently moist soil, or in water up to 10cm deep. Good in containers, which can help to contain spread. See pond plants and bog gardens for further advice
PruningRemove any dead stems to improve appearance
PropagationPropagate by division in spring
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free