Origin
Equisetum hyemale L. var. robustum (A. Braun) A.A. Eat., also known as Scouring Rush or Rough Horsetail, is a plant species that belongs to the Equisetopsida class and the Equisetaceae family. It is native to North America, specifically found in moist soils in most states of the US, except for those along the Gulf Coast.
Common Names
Scouring Rush, Rough Horsetail, Giant Horsetail, Snake Grass, Scouringrush Scouringrush Horsetail, Corn Horsetail, Puzzlegrass, Scourwort, Shavegrass are common names used to refer to Equisetum hyemale L. var. robustum (A. Braun) A.A. Eat.
Uses
Equisetum hyemale L. var. robustum (A. Braun) A.A. Eat. has a long history of medicinal use by various Native American tribes. The plant contains high levels of silica, which make it useful in treating urinary tract infections, kidney stones, and bladder infections. It is also used topically as an antiseptic for wounds and as a hair rinse to prevent dandruff and promote hair growth.
The plant is also used for landscaping purposes and as a natural barrier for erosion control along riverbanks and lake shores.
General Appearance
Equisetum hyemale L. var. robustum (A. Braun) A.A. Eat. grows up to 6 feet tall, with a thick and hollow stem that is segmented with nodes. The stems are dark green and have a ridged texture, giving the plant a rough appearance. The leaves are reduced to small, brown scales attached to the nodes. The plant produces spore-bearing cones in the spring, which are cylindrical in shape and 1-2 inches long. When the plant dies, it leaves behind a tall, brown, and brittle stem that persists for several years.
Growth Conditions for Equisetum hyemale L. var. robustum
Light Requirements: Equisetum hyemale L. var. robustum prefers moderate to bright light conditions. It can tolerate some shade but will not thrive in deep shade. Therefore, it is recommended to place the plant in a location that receives at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight or bright indirect light.
Temperature Requirements: Equisetum hyemale L. var. robustum is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It can grow in USDA hardiness zones 3-11, which means it can withstand temperatures as low as -40°F (-40°C). However, it prefers temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C) and will grow best in these conditions.
Soil Requirements: Equisetum hyemale L. var. robustum requires moist and well-draining soil. It prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range of 5.5-7.5. The plant can grow in various soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soil, as long as the soil remains consistently moist. It is recommended to add a layer of organic matter, such as peat moss or compost, to improve soil moisture retention.
Watering Requirements: Equisetum hyemale L. var. robustum requires regular watering to maintain moist soil conditions. It is recommended to water the plant deeply once a week, or more frequently depending on the climatic conditions. The roots of the plant should not be allowed to dry out, as this can cause stunted growth.
Fertilizer Requirements: Equisetum hyemale L. var. robustum does not require frequent fertilization. However, an application of organic fertilizer during the growing season can encourage healthy growth. It is recommended to use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 or lower.
Cultivation of Equisetum hyemale L. var. robustum
Equisetum hyemale L. var. robustum, commonly known as rough horsetail, is a herbaceous perennial plant that is widely distributed across North America. It is a hardy and adaptable plant that can grow in a range of conditions.
Planting and Watering Needs
When planting Equisetum hyemale L. var. robustum, it is important to choose a site that receives full or partial sunlight and has well-draining soil. The plant can be propagated through rhizomes, which can be planted in the soil at a depth of about one inch. Water the plant regularly, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot. Check the soil moisture level frequently and water only when the soil is dry to the touch.
Fertilization
Equisetum hyemale L. var. robustum does not require regular fertilization. However, adding organic matter to the soil during planting can help improve the soil quality and provide essential nutrients to the plant. Avoid using chemical fertilizers as they can burn the plant's roots.
Pruning
Pruning Equisetum hyemale L. var. robustum is not necessary, but it can help maintain the plant's shape and size. Cut back the old and withered stems in early spring before new growth appears. The plant can be quite invasive, so keeping it contained in a designated area may require frequent pruning or digging out of unwanted rhizomes.
Propagation of Equisetum hyemale L. var. robustum
Equisetum hyemale L. var. robustum, commonly known as rough horsetail, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Equisetaceae family. It is a very ancient plant that dates back to the Paleozoic era and is commonly used for ornamental purposes due to its interesting features. Propagation of Equisetum hyemale L. var. robustum can be done using different methods.
Division
The most common propagation method used for Equisetum hyemale L. var. robustum is division. This method involves splitting the clumps into smaller sections and planting them separately. The best time to divide Equisetum hyemale L. var. robustum is during spring or early fall when the plant is not in active growth. Each section should contain some roots and a few stems, and should be replanted immediately without letting the roots dry out.
Spores
Equisetum hyemale L. var. robustum can also be propagated using spores. Spores are small, dust-like structures found on the plant's cone-like structures. To propagate Equisetum hyemale L. var. robustum using spores, the spores are collected and sown in a suitable growing medium. The medium should be moist and free-draining, and the spores should be kept warm and humid. The spores will eventually germinate, and the resulting plants can be transplanted once they have developed enough.
Cuttings
An alternative method of propagation for Equisetum hyemale L. var. robustum is using cuttings. This method involves taking stem cuttings from the parent plant and rooting them in water or a suitable growing medium. The cuttings should be taken from mature stems that are not in active growth. Once the cuttings have developed roots, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Disease and Pest Management for Equisetum hyemale L. var. robustum
Equisetum hyemale L. var. robustum, commonly known as scouring rush, is a hardy plant that is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, there are a few issues that can affect the plant and it is important to be aware of them and take preventive measures and management strategies to avoid serious issues.
Common Pests
The most common pest affecting the Equisetum hyemale L. var. robustum is the spider mite. Spider mites are small arachnids that feed on the sap of the plant, which causes yellowing and browning of the leaves. One way to avoid spider mites is to regularly spray a stream of water on the leaves, which will help to wash off any existing spider mites.
If spider mites multiply and become out of control, use an insecticidal soap according to the instructions on the product label. It is also important to regularly inspect the Equisetum hyemale L. var. robustum for any signs of spider mites or other pests and take action immediately to avoid a serious infestation.
Common Diseases
The most common disease that may affect the Equisetum hyemale L. var. robustum is fungal infection. Fungal infections are often due to excessive moisture, and symptoms may include yellowing, wilting, and premature death of the plant. Preventive measures include good hygiene practices, such as washing hands and tools before handling the plant, and avoiding watering the leaves or over-watering the soil.
If fungal infection is detected, the affected leaves and stems should be removed immediately, and the remaining plant should be treated with a fungicide according to the product label's instructions. Avoid using excessive amounts of fertilizer as it can promote fungal growth in the soil.
Conclusion
Prevention is the key when it comes to maintaining the health of Equisetum hyemale L. var. robustum. Regular inspection, good hygiene practices, and proper watering and fertilization can help to prevent pest infestations and fungal infections. If pests or diseases are detected, timely action with appropriate management strategies can help to minimize the damage and keep the plant healthy.
