Rough horsetail - Equisetum hyemale (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images, Toxic)

Rough horsetail

Also known as: Scouringrush horsetail, Snake grass

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.

Scientific classification

Species

Rough horsetail (Equisetum hyemale)

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Fern

Plant Type

Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer

Bloom Time

All year round

Harvest Time

1 m

Plant Height

30 cm to 1.8 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

Brown, Yellow

Fruit Color

Yellow, Brown

Flower Color

Green, Black

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Rough horsetail

Distribution of Rough horsetail

Distribution Map

The rough horsetail is native throughout Europe, Russia, Asia and US. It occurs around moist areas such as water bodies and woods.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Sandy, gravelly areas, wetlands, riparian zones of rivers and streams, moist forest, woodland openings, lake and pond shores, ditches, marshes, swamps

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Rough horsetail is a popular evergreen perennial grass prized for its hardiness and distinctive shoots. It is commonly used as an ornamental garden plant and is essential in water gardens and swampy areas. Plant it with water lilies and reed grasses for color and texture.

Symbolism

Snake charming, Fertility

Name Story

Rough horsetail: The plant appears like tiny ridges running vertically along the stems that contains silica, giving the stem the rough sensation. Hence, it is called rough horsetail for the appearance and rough sensation. Also, early Americans used this plant for scouring pots and pans.

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Toxicity

Rough horsetail ingestion can cause vitamin B deficiency due to thiaminase content, especially if consumed in large amounts. Diuretic properties of rough horsetail may lead to severe dehydration. Avoid rough horsetail during pregnancy, alcoholism, carrot and nicotine allergies, diabetes, or low potassium levels for safety.

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Quickly Identify Rough horsetail

Hollow, jointed stems with pronounced ridges and black bands at nodes.

Silica-infused, evergreen stems reaching up to 6 feet (180 cm) in height.

Sparse, black toothed leaves forming a sheath-like structure at stem nodes.

Distinctive segmented appearance due to straight, unbranched stems with nodes.

Fertile stems bear spore-bearing cones with sharp points for reproduction.

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Care Guide for Rough horsetail

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from moist habitats, rough horsetail prefers consistently wet soil. It thrives with weekly watering and can endure brief dry spells. Its robust root system efficiently stores water, enhancing resilience during short droughts, reflecting its adaptability to water-rich environments.

Fertilize: Fertilizing rough horsetail with a high-nitrogen formula promotes growth and strengthens stems. Apply a diluted solution in early spring monthly until autumn, avoiding excess. Do not fertilize during winter dormancy, and water the soil beforehand to prevent root burn. Seasonal adjustments are essential for optimal care.

Pruning: Rough horsetail has tall, reed-like stems, known for durability and invasiveness. Prune in early spring to control growth, cutting back dead stems at the base. Regular pruning promotes health and prevents overcrowding, while avoiding heavy pruning during growth periods minimizes stress and enhances aesthetics.

Propagation: The primary propagation method for rough horsetail is division in spring and autumn. While moderately challenging, successful growth is indicated by new shoots. Achieving adequate moisture and maintaining a consistent temperature significantly enhance success rates.

Repotting: Repot rough horsetail every 2-3 years in early spring to foster growth. Use a tall container to suit its vertical roots. After repotting, keep the soil consistently moist and provide shade to aid in recovery from repotting stress, ensuring quick rebound for this striking plant.

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