Equisetum hyemale
rough horsetail
A tall, upright, evergreen perennial to about 180cm, with hollow, jointed stems banded in black
Other common names
Dutch rushDutch rushes
see morepewterwort
scouring rush
scouringrush horsetail
shave grass
snake grass
Synonyms
Equisetum japonica
Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Poorly–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Black Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Black Green | |||
| Autumn | Black Green | |||
| Winter | Black Green |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or North–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Equisetaceae
- Native to the UK
- Yes
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- 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.
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Eurasia, N. America
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow 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
Propagation
Propagate by division in spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Architectural
- City and courtyard gardens
- Patio and container plants
Pruning
Remove any dead or damaged stems to improve appearance
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.