Equisetum arvense: All about horsetail and its care
Equisetum arvense, popularly known as Horse tail, is a species that has fascinated botanists and gardeners throughout history for its antiquity, its unique characteristics and its remarkable medicinal properties. This plant has been part of terrestrial vegetation since prehistoric times, being considered a living fossil for its permanence for millions of years and for its adaptation to various types of humid habitats.
Below, you will learn in detail how to identify, cultivate and take advantage of all the benefits of horsetail, as well as the best practices for its use. maintenance both in the garden and in the pot, and the most up-to-date and comprehensive advice for harnessing its full ecological and medicinal potential. You'll also discover detailed reproduction techniques, cultivation advice, and a review of its traditional and current applications, both in gardening and natural health.
Botanical description and characteristics of Equisetum arvense
La Horse tail it is a perennial plant that belongs to the family EquisetaceaeIt is easily distinguished by its erect and hollow stems, with a rough texture and deep green color, which can reach up to a meter in height. They have nodes from which tiny scaly leaves emerge, arranged in whorls, and secondary branches similar to fronds, especially in mature plants.
- Common name: Horse tail
- Scientific name: Equisetum arvense
- Family: Equisetaceae
- Origin: Native to Europe, Asia and North America, although it has spread globally in humid and temperate areas
- Level: Up to 1 meter, tiny leaves and hollow stems
- Appearance: Green main stem, branches arising in whorls forming a feathery appearance, reminiscent of a horse's tail
One of the most striking features is its spore reproduction and not by seeds, which relates it to ferns and places it as one of the oldest plants on our planet. root system is rhizomatous and expansive, which makes it a plant of great vigor and invasive capacity in optimal conditions.
Chemical composition and unique properties
The great value of Equisetum arvense resides in your high content of silicon salts, located in the epidermis of the stems and leaves, as well as in other active compounds:
- Minerals: Silica, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, manganese and magnesium
- Silicic acid and silicates
- Alkaloids (e.g., nicotine)
- Tannins and saponins
- Flavonoids and phytosterols
These components give horsetail diuretic, anti-inflammatory, hemostatic, healing and astringent propertiesSilicon, in particular, plays an essential role in the formation and maintenance of connective tissues, nails, skin and bones, so its use as a natural remedy is very old. Its silica content also explains why, historically, the plant was used as a natural scouring pad for cleaning metals and utensils.
The high concentration of silicon has been confirmed in modern studies, in which after the plant's incineration, more than 70% of its ashes correspond to this mineral, essential for human and plant structural health.
Where and how to plant it: ideal habitat and controlled expansion
El Equisetum arvense requires environments humid and soils rich in organic matterIt develops optimally under the following conditions:
- Light: It prefers semi-shade, although it tolerates direct sun and slightly shaded areas.
- Substratum: Moist, well-drained soil enriched with compost. It thrives in soils with good moisture content, even near streams, springs, or ponds.
- Humidity: It requires abundant and constant watering. In aquatic culture, it can be grown directly in water, while in pots, it is best to use containers without drainage to keep the substrate moist.
Horsetail is famous for its vigorous and often invasive nature, thanks to the expansion of its rhizomes. Therefore, it is recommended grow it in pots, planters or controlled spaces in the garden, especially near water sources or in areas where growth control is easily manageable.
In case of water gardens, it is ideal for decorate margins and wetlands, where it helps purify water by absorbing nutrients and contaminants, becoming a natural ally for the biological balance of the environment.
Essential care of Equisetum arvense in the garden and in pots
Climate and exposure
The horsetail supports well the temperature changes, although its optimal temperature range is between 15°C and 25°C. It is resistant to light frost, but excessive heat can dehydrate the stems if adequate humidity is not maintained.
Irrigation
Irrigation is the most determining factor in the successful cultivation of Equisetum arvense. The soil should remain moist at all times; if grown in a pot, place a saucer under the pot with 4 to 5 cm of water, replenishing it regularly to prevent waterlogging and fungal growth.
Soil and fertilization
Prefer soils rich in humus and organic matterAfter each pruning, it is advisable to apply a balanced fertilizer (NPK: nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium), or fertilize lightly with compost or manure to encourage vigorous new growth.
Pruning and growth control
Annual pruning is essential, especially in small spaces. It should be done by leaving approximately 30% of the shoots and removing the rest, which encourages strong growth and prevents uncontrolled invasion. Pruning closely is not recommended, as this weakens the plant.
Pots and transplanting
when cultivating horsetail in pots:
- Select pots without drainage holes to retain moisture.
- Use a universal substrate improved with compost
- Avoid excessively dry substrates or those with a lot of pumice, as they can make rooting difficult.
- Check the growth of the rhizomes and, if necessary, divide the plant periodically to avoid overcrowding.
Reproduction of Equisetum arvense: spores and clump division
Horsetail can reproduce in two ways:
- By spores: At the tips of the fertile stems, structures called sporangia develop, releasing microscopic spores. These spores allow reproduction in nature, although it isn't the easiest method for amateurs.
- Rhizome division: The most common method in home cultivation. Simply remove a portion of the rhizome, along with some stems and roots, and plant it in a new container or directly in the moist garden. It's important to ensure the new plant has sufficient moisture from the start for proper rooting.
It is also possible to reproduce the plant from stem cuttings, although this method requires ensuring good conditions of growth. constant humidity.
Medicinal uses and traditional applications
La Horse tail It has been used in multiple cultures such as:
- Natural diuretic: Facilitates the elimination of fluids and toxins, helping in cases of fluid retention, kidney and urinary problems
- Antihemorrhagic and healing: Used in decoctions and as a dry powder to speed the recovery of wounds, ulcers and minor bleeding
- Strengthening bone and connective tissue: Due to its richness in silicon, it is used to improve the health of bones, nails, skin and hair.
- Anti-inflammatory: Ally in the treatment of joint and muscle problems
The most common ways to use it are in infusions, liquid extracts, capsules, creams and gelsIn phytotherapy, stem decoction is the most popular and effective, especially for taking advantage of silica and other active ingredients. It is also used in hair care products that strengthen hair and improve its shine, combining it with plants such as rosemary or calendula.
Horsetail is also a prominent ingredient in shampoos and hair care products, given its ability to strengthen hair, improve shine and stimulate growth, especially when combined with plants like rosemary or calendula. For more details on its applications, see our section dedicated to .
Warning: Medicinal use of horsetail should be moderate and not exceed prolonged treatments without professional advice, since it contains compounds such as thiaminase, which can affect the absorption of vitamin B1.
Ecological and sustainable gardening uses
In gardening, horsetail is key to the biological control of pests and fungi thanks to its equisetonin and silica content:
- Natural fungicide: Its extract is effective in combating mildew, powdery mildew and other fungal infections that affect vegetables and fruit trees.
- Pest repellent: It has a deterrent effect against aphids and red spiders.
- Organic fertilizer: Improves soil structure and fertility by releasing minerals absorbed during its development
Horsetail decoction can be made by boiling the stems for an hour in rainwater or low-mineralization mineral water, after a period of hydration. It is preferable to use a glass, ceramic, or wooden container for filtering, and let it rest covered with a cloth for two days. release all your propertiesThis solution can be applied directly as a spray on the leaves or as a preventative irrigation.
Common problems, toxicity, and warnings
Despite its strength and adaptability, Equisetum arvense can be affected by cultivation errors:
- Lack of moisture: Causes dryness and wilting of the stems
- Excessive direct sunlight in dry climates: It can burn parts of the plant.
- Invasiveness: Its uncontrolled development causes problems in shared orchards and gardens, so it is advisable to have a separate space or the use of physical barriers.
- Poor substrate: Limits growth and reduces the content of active ingredients
Regarding toxicity, its consumption should be done with caution, especially in long-term treatments, children, pregnant women, and people sensitive to thiaminase, an enzyme that degrades vitamin B1. Its long-term presence in the diet can induce a deficiency of this vitamin, so it is advised consult a specialist before starting regular use.
Most commonly used varieties and similar species
Within the genre Equisetum There are several species with similar ornamental and medicinal uses, among which the following stand out:
- Equisetum hyemale: Also known as winter horsetail, it is recognized for its sturdier stems and its tolerance to extreme cold. It is widely used in ponds and sustainable gardens.
- Equisetum giganteum: Larger, common in South America.
- Equisetum sylvaticum and Equisetum palustre: Adapted to wilder soils and flooded areas.
They all share many characteristics, although Equisetum arvense is the most valued for its abundance of active ingredients and its ease of adaptation.
Advanced tips for successful growing
- Controls expansion: Use pots or limit growth to prevent it from invading other areas of your garden.
- Check the condition of the rhizomes annually and divide the plant if necessary to maintain vitality and avoid internal competition
- Keep the substrate always moist, avoiding putrid waterlogging. If you grow several species of horsetail, differentiate their needs: Equisetum hyemale is more aquatic, while Equisetum arvense tolerates less humid soils better.
- Promotes substrate biodiversity, using beneficial microorganisms such as rhizobacteria, which help plant growth and improve soil quality
Frequently asked questions about growing and using Equisetum arvense
- Can I plant horsetail next to other aquatic species? Yes, but control its expansion, as it can compete for space and nutrients.
- What part is used for infusions? The aerial part, that is, the young stems and branches, preferably collected at their peak silica concentration (late summer).
- Is it possible to use the dried plant? Yes, you should dry it in a shaded, well-ventilated area. The process can take several days, until the plant is completely dehydrated and crunchy to the touch.
- Can I use stem cuttings to propagate it? Yes, although it requires humid conditions and shade to root properly.
- Is it normal for some stems to fall off? If the plant is too dry or exposed to strong winds, it may experience drooping and weakening of the stems. Check the substrate and adjust the location as needed.
La Horse tail It's a botanical treasure that combines ecological functionality, medicinal value, and beauty in the landscape. Its responsible cultivation and in-depth knowledge of its care ensure that you can benefit from all its virtues without risk, creating a healthy, resilient, and sustainable garden or orchard, as well as a home where you can take advantage of one of the most effective and versatile natural remedies in our flora.
