Equisetum hyemale (Horsetail Rush or Scouring Rush) is an ancient, reed-like perennial recognized for its tall, upright green stems marked by distinctive dark bands at each joint. One of the oldest plant lineages still growing today, it brings a bold architectural element to ponds, rain gardens, and water features without relying on showy flowers. Its dense colonies provide shelter for wildlife and create year-round visual interest with evergreen foliage in mild climates. Whether planted in containers or along water's edge, Horsetail Rush adds a clean, modern texture that contrasts beautifully with broad-leaved aquatic plants.

Scientific Name: Equisetum hyemale

Origin: Texas, North America, Europe, and Asia

Native Habitat: Wetlands, streambanks, pond edges, marshes

Height: 2–4 ft

Spread: Variable (spreads by rhizomes)

Light: Full Sun to Part Shade

Water: Wet to Shallow Water

USDA Zones: 4–11

Bloom: Non-flowering (reproduces by spores)