1. Smooth Horsetail – Equisetum laevigatum
(ek-wi-SEE-tum lee-vi-GAY-tum)
Family: Equisetaceae (Horsetail Family)
Native to: Much of CA north to British Columbia; moist, often sandy places in many plant
communities.
Growth characteristics: herbaceous annual/perennial mature height:1-5+ ft. mature width:1-3 ft.
Herbaceous annual in colder climates – perennial here. Member of ancient Horsetail (Scouring Rush)
family. Jointed upright stems are green, usually with dark band at tip. Rapid growth; moderate
lifespan (5-10 years or less). Foliage is poisonous if eaten.
Not a flowering plant. Reproduces by spores (like ferns). Spores develop in coneshaped structure at tip or stalks. Interesting, showy.
Blooms/fruits:
Uses in the garden: Most often used around ponds/pools or in large pots/planters. Makes a good
bog plant. Plant was used extensively as a medicinal plant and for sanding/sharpening wood &
stone objects (hence the name ‘Scouring Rush’).
Sensible substitute for: Non-native Equisetum, Papyrus.
Attracts: Habitat for aquatic species (fish, amphibians, insects).
Requirements:
Element
Sun
Soil
Water
Fertilizer
Requirement
Full sun
Any texture; tolerates lower pH (< 6.0)
High moisture needs (Zone 2-3 or 3); needs moist soil
Don’t over-fertilize; needs very little. If growing in planting mix, add a little garden
soil to supply silica requirement.
Other
Keep soil from drying out. If planted in pot, you may want to let the pot stand in a
saucer of water. Will spread under good conditions, so may want to contain.
Management:
Propagation: from spores: fresh spores; keep moist
Plant/seed sources (see list for source numbers): 1, 2, 8
by divisions: keep moist
12/31/07
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