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Equisetum scirpoides

A tufted, evergreen perennial to 20cm tall, forming a clump of slender, dark green, jointed, reed-like stems. Best grown in a container to prevent unwanted spreading

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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.5–1 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Poorly–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Green
Autumn Green
Winter Green
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H4
Botanical details
Family
Equisetaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Clump forming
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

Unresolved

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in moist to boggy soil in sun or partial shade; a container standing in a tray of water is ideal as this plant has the potential to become a nuisance

Propagation

Propagate by division

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Patio and container plants
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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