Equisetum scirpoides - Dwarf Horsetail, Pond Marginal Plant

Equisetum scirpoides, known as dwarf horsetail, forms tufts of very slender, wiry, dark green stems with black or brown bands. It stays evergreen, giving interest through winter, and can take on a pinkish tinge in hard cold.

Dwarf horsetail at a glance

Botanical name	Equisetum scirpoides
Common name	Dwarf horsetail, rush horsetail
Plant type	Evergreen horsetail; forms tufted clumps
Height and spread	About 15–20 cm tall (up to 30 cm), spreading 25–100 cm
Flowers	None; it makes spores in small cones
Position	Full sun or part shade; tolerates shade
Soil	Moist to boggy, poorly drained soil; any type or pH
Pond depth	0–5 cm of water over the crown
Hardiness	RHS H4 – hardy in an average UK winter (-10 to -5°C)
Native to	Not UK native (introduced in Britain)

Where to plant dwarf horsetail

The very shallow edge of a pond, 0–5 cm deep
Small ponds, container ponds and pots stood in a tray of water
Bog gardens with moist to boggy soil

Does it spread?

Sources differ. Some nurseries describe it as slow-growing and non-invasive, but the RHS says it has the potential to become a nuisance and recommends growing it in a container.

How to plant and care for it

Plant from spring to late summer in moist to boggy soil or very shallow water. It is generally free of pests and diseases.

Which size should I buy?

Bare-root plants (7 cm, 9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre) arrive without a pot or compost and are the most economical way to plant a group. Potted plants (9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre) arrive growing in our peat-free compost and give a faster display. Packs of 3 come in 7 cm, 9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre bare-root sizes and cost less per plant. The 2x Pot & Compost option is two plants supplied with pots and compost.