scouringrush horsetail
Equisetum hyemale
Overview
The scouringrush horsetail (Equisetum hyemale) is an amazing plant species. Its tough, hollow shoots are composed of jointed segments and whorled branches and can reach heights of 3 feet. It is extremely hardy and can withstand prolonged periods of drought. And because of its high silica content, it has been used over centuries as a natural scouring material for cleaning and sharpening tools. It's also incredibly tolerant of a wide variety of soils from moisture-loving to flooded conditions. An abundant source of nutrients in wetlands, scouringrush horsetail provides food to various aquatic life, and its rapid growth helps to protect shorelines from erosion. It is truly an amazing plant species.
Care Guide
Watering
This native North American species of Equisetum is ideal for a wide variety of soil and sun conditions. It prefers damp soil and should be watered once weekly during the summer months, providing enough water to keep the soil damp but not so much that it puddles. During the winter months, the scouringrush horsetail will require less water, so allow the top layer of soil to dry out before watering.
Light
Scouringrush horsetail (Equisetum hyemale) is a plant species that prefers full sunlight. For best growth, it should get 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily. The amount of sunlight will depend on the season and the regional environment. In summer months, scouringrush horsetail should receive a full 8 hours of direct sunlight, while in winter it is typically fine with 6 hours.
Soil
Bog
Temperature
Hardiness zone 4-9.
Pruning
Scouringrush horsetail (Equisetum hyemale) should be pruned in late winter or early spring. Start pruning when the plants are still dormant, before growth emerges in the spring. Remove any shoots that are dead or damaged. Prune off shoots that are growing out of bounds or that are too tall. You can also prune off any that are crowding each other or shading desired plants.
Propagation
Division
Diseases & Pests
Common pests: Pest resistant, Disease resistant.
Related plants
Other plants you might like if you grow scouringrush horsetail.
