Water Horsetail (Equisetum Fluviatile) is a perennial fern in the Equisetaceae family with easy care difficulty. It requires aquatic watering and full sun or partial shade light in USDA hardiness zones 3-9. This plant is toxic to cats and dogs — keep it out of reach of pets.

Equisetum fluviatile is a perennial, aquatic or semi-aquatic fern ally known for its hollow, jointed stems and preference for wet habitats.

Water Horsetail

Water Horsetail

Equisetum Fluviatile

Equisetum fluviatile is a perennial, aquatic or semi-aquatic fern ally known for its hollow, jointed stems and preference for wet habitats.

Quick Facts

Type
fern
Lifecycle
perennial
Care Difficulty
Easy
Water Needs
aquatic
Light
Full Sun, Partial Shade
Hardiness Zones
3-9

Safety

⚠️
Not Pet Safe
⚠️
Not Child Safe
☠️
Toxic

Growing Conditions

Soil Types:loamy, silty, peaty
Indoor:No
Outdoor:Yes
Garden Use:erosion control, habitat creation, groundcover in wet areas

Care Calendar

Monthly care tasks for Water Horsetail

Jan
Prune
Feb
Fertilize
Mar
Repot
Apr
Water+
May
...
Jun
...
Jul
...
Aug
...
Sep
...
Oct
...
Nov
...
Dec
...

Expert Care Tips

Pro tips from botanists and plant experts

Watering Tip

Check soil moisture by inserting your finger 1 inch deep. Water only when the top layer feels dry to prevent overwatering.

Humidity Trick

Group plants together to create...

Growth Hack

Rotate your plant every...

Photo Gallery10+ photos

Water Horsetail
Water Horsetail detail

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Taxonomy

Family:Equisetaceae
Genus:Equisetum