Equisetum scirpoides (Dwarf Scouring Rush)

Equisetum scirpoides (Dwarf Scouring Rush) is a spreading, evergreen perennial boasting thin, wiry stems that bend, coil or twist into a contorted tangle. The leaves are reduced to a sheath that surrounds the stem and there is black banding at the nodes. This non-flowering, seedless plant reproduces by spores (like the ferns), which are contained in pine cone-like fruiting heads, 1/4 in. long (0.6 cm), at the tips of the fertile stems. Adding a charming short vertical accent to shoreline edges, Dwarf Scouring Rush makes a good and dainty groundcover for wet sites.

• Grows up to 6-10 in. tall (15-25 cm) and 3-4 ft. wide (90-120 cm). This plant will spread indefinitely by creeping rhizomes to form a colony if not restrained.
• Performs best in full sun or part shade in fertile, moist to wet soils. While it thrives in consistently moist garden soil, it can also be planted in standing water to 2 in. deep (5 cm). Tolerates full shade.
• This plant is highly versatile. It may be grown at the edge of a pond or water garden, in boggy areas, in shallow water. Great for erosion control and naturalization. Good for containers too.
• Requires little care, is virtually disease-free, pest-free and provides year-round interest
• Remove any dead or damaged stems to improve appearance.
• Propagate by division in spring.
• Native to northern Eurasia and America.