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California Native Plant

Equisetum hyemale

Horsetail

Plant photo of: Equisetum hyemale
Information by: Jerry Sortomme Editor        Photographer: Normans/GardenSoft

 

Description

This reed-like plant has dark green, jointed stems that reach 3'-4' tall but will spread. It should receive sun to part shade with regular summer watering. The reed grass can be extremely invasive and is best when used in pots or when confined by a barrier. However, it can be extremely effective as an accent plant. While tolerant of wet conditions, the most successful plantings are those with regular watering and more during summer. It does well in coastal areas. Tall grasses are highly combustible.

 

Plant Type

Perennial, Grass

Height Range

3-6'

Flower Color

n/a

Flower Season

n/a

Leaf Color

Dark Green

Bark Color

n/a

Fruit Color

n/a

Fruit Season

n/a

Sun

Half

Water

Medium, Extra in Summer

Growth Rate

Fast

Soil Type

Sandy, Clay, Loam, Rocky, Unparticular

Soil Condition

Average, Moist

Soil pH

Neutral

Adverse Factors

Invasive

Design Styles

Japanese, Seascape, Tropical, Water Garden, Wetlands

Accenting Features

Silhouette, Unusual Foliage, Unusual Shape

Seasonal Interest

Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall

Location Uses

Entry, Perennial Border, Swimming Pool

Special Uses

Container, Naturalizing

Attracts Wildlife

n/a

Water Saving Tip:

Replace turf with groundcovers, trees, and shrubs. If you have areas where no one uses the grass, patches that do not grow well, or a turf area too small to water without runoff, consider replacing the turf with water-efficient landscaping.