An ancient plant that dates back to 350 million years ago, Horsetail Rush, Equisetum hyemale, is neither a sedge, grass, nor rush. The evergreen bamboo-like stems shoot up from the ground to about 3-4′ tall, creating a small thicket of green. Naturally found around streams, ponds, and moist areas, this native plant thrives in areas with continual moisture in sun or shade. Particularly in winter, when most plants have lost their leaves, Horsetail Rush adds striking interest to the yard. It will quickly spread and can be used to help control erosion in wet naturalized areas.

Plant in sun to shade. It grows aggressively via rhizomes to fill any adequately moist space. Consider planting in pots or using a barrier to manage growth. It can grow in standing water up to 4″ in depth.