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Some 25 species of perennial, rush-like, flowerless plants comprise
this genus, native mainly to the northern hemisphere although a few
are found in Africa and South America below the Equator.
They are usually erect and can be non-branching and cylindrical or
with branches whorled at the nodes.
They rarely exceed 10 ft (3 m) tall and grow from vigorous creeping
rhizomes, so although they can be quite ornamental their use in
gardens is limited due to their weedy tendencies.
Horsetails have been used since Roman times to scour pots and
medically as a general tonic, an astringent and for staunching the
flow of blood from wounds.
Other properties: Medicinal
Cultivation: Grow horsetails in containers and make sure the
rhizomes don’t escape out the drainage holes.
Give them a sunny aspect and heaps of water.
Propagation is usually by division. |
