How to Grow and Care for Horsetails

Field horsetail (Equisetum arvense) grows from moist soils. In the spring it generates brown, non-photosynthetic stems whose whole purpose is to release reproductive spores. Once those stems wither, the plant grows its sterile photosynthetic stem to harvest and store energy for the next growing season. The plant fibers are slightly abrasive, and in the past were used to polish pewter and wooden objects. Ironically, field horsetail is toxic to horses and other livestock.

The giant horsetail(Equisetum telmateia) is native to South and Central America. The total height of this plant can range from 2 to 5 m tall, which is one reason for its common name. Some of the slender branches of the giant horsetail have spore cones.

Rough horsetail (Equisetum hyemale) is an evergreen perennial. An aggressive grower, it reproduces through spores and is non-flowering. It prefers full sun to partial shade and is pest resistant. It provides erosion control, grows well in wetlands and makes an interesting addition to water gardens. Expected height of 61 to 91 cm.

Woodland horsetail (Equisetum sylvaticum) is a perennial plant species native to North America and Eurasia. Woodland horsetail grows in swampy forest, open woodlands, and meadow areas. This species is considered one of the most attractive species of horsetail.

The genus name of the dwarf horsetail (Equisetum scirpoides) combines the Latin words for horse ("equus") and "bristle or animal hair" ("seta"). A miniature version of the Common Horsetail, it's a perennial indigenous to America and northern Eurasia.