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Equisetum palustre
Marsh horsetail
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General Info
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Latin Name: Equisetum palustre
Common Name: Marsh horsetail
Family: Equisetaceae(Click to Search)
Author: L.
Known Hazards: Large quantities of the plant can be toxic. This is because it contains the enzyme thiaminase[172], a substance that can rob the body of the vitamin B complex[65]. In small quantities this enzyme will do no harm to people eating an adequate diet that is rich in vitamin B, though large quantities can cause severe health problems. The enzyme is destroyed by heat or thorough drying, so cooking the plant will remove the thiaminase[172].
The plant also contains equisetic acid - see the notes on medicinal uses for more information[213].
Habitat: Bogs, fens, marshes and wet heaths, woods and meadows throughout Britain, ascending to 900 metres[257].
Mature Height: 0.6
Habit: Perennial
Cultivation Notes: We have no information on the needs of this species but, judging by the plant's native habitat, it is likely to require a moist to wet soil in a sunny position.
A very cold-hardy species tolerating temperatures down to about -30°c[200].
Plants have a deep and penetrating root system and can be invasive. If grown in the garden they are best kept in bounds by planting them in a large container which can be sunk into the ground[200].
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