Overview
Equisetum hyemale is a columnar upright aquatic in the genus Equisetum, part of the Equisetaceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 1.5-2.5 metres tall and 0.5-1 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Equisetum hyemale grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include bog gardens, containers and pond plants. It is native to Belgium and Brussels-Capital Region.
About
Equisetum hyemale, commonly known as rough horsetail or Dutch rush, is a columnar upright aquatic plant from the Equisetaceae family. This evergreen species grows to a height of 1.5 to 2.5 metres with a spread of 0.5 to 1 metre, reaching full height within 2 to 5 years. It thrives in poorly-drained soils including clay, loam, and sand, and tolerates a range of pH levels from acid to alkaline. Suitable for full sun or partial shade and various aspects, it remains an interesting feature throughout the winter season.
About the genus
Equisetum is the only living genus in Equisetaceae, a family of vascular plants that reproduce by spores rather than seeds.
Wikipedia contributors, "Equisetum", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Equisetum
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Equisetum
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Poorly-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Equisetum hyemale size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Aquatic, Bogs
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Height
- 1.5-2.5 metres
- Spread
- 0.5-1 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Bog gardens, Containers, Pond plants
- Native to
- Belgium, Brussels-Capital Region
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Equisetum hyemale
- Propagation
- Division, Spores
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Equisetum hyemale?
Equisetum hyemale prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Equisetum hyemale need?
Equisetum hyemale is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays poorly-drained.
How big does Equisetum hyemale grow?
Equisetum hyemale reaches a height of 1.5-2.5 metres and a spread of 0.5-1 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
Is Equisetum hyemale hardy in the UK?
Equisetum hyemale has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Equisetum hyemale?
Division, Spores.
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