field horsetail
Latin name: Equisetum arvense
Family: Equisetaceae
Other common names; mares tail, scouring rush
Flowering time: March to April
Height: to 60cm
Growing conditions: near water
Nectar source for: grey text
Food source for: grey text
Description
Horsetail originates from a group of tall plants, some of which grew up to 30 metres tall and were one of the most dominant plants during the Paleozoic era, first appearing some 400 million years ago. Indeed, fossil findings show us that horsetails have retained multiple ancient features, indicating that this ancient spore-bearing plant could possibly be the oldest living species within today’s vascular plants.
How to identify: The plant produces light-brown stems in late spring, topped with cone-like structures, and these are followed by light-green shoots that resemble pine needles. It dies back completely in winter. Once established, it has roots which extended 2m deep and spreads by means of creeping rhizomes.
How to propagate: Propagate by collecting rhizome sections in spring, or above ground stem cuttings. Horsetail also propagates naturally via spores.
Family: Equisetaceae
Other common names; mares tail, scouring rush
Flowering time: March to April
Height: to 60cm
Growing conditions: near water
Nectar source for: grey text
Food source for: grey text
Description
Horsetail originates from a group of tall plants, some of which grew up to 30 metres tall and were one of the most dominant plants during the Paleozoic era, first appearing some 400 million years ago. Indeed, fossil findings show us that horsetails have retained multiple ancient features, indicating that this ancient spore-bearing plant could possibly be the oldest living species within today’s vascular plants.
How to identify: The plant produces light-brown stems in late spring, topped with cone-like structures, and these are followed by light-green shoots that resemble pine needles. It dies back completely in winter. Once established, it has roots which extended 2m deep and spreads by means of creeping rhizomes.
How to propagate: Propagate by collecting rhizome sections in spring, or above ground stem cuttings. Horsetail also propagates naturally via spores.