Equisetum sylvaticum, commonly known as Wood Horsetail, is a perennial herb native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, including North America, Europe, and Asia. It thrives in moist, shady conditions found in wet woodlands, swampy forests, and meadows. Typically, it reaches 12-24 inches in height and features delicate, drooping branches arranged in whorls, which give it a feathery appearance. The plant reproduces both by spores and vegetatively by rhizomes.

Wood Horsetail is appreciated for its unique architectural form and is often used in shaded garden areas, where its ethereal quality can be showcased. It is also valued for its historical use as a scouring material due to its high silica content. In cultivation, it requires consistently moist soil and can tolerate poorly drained areas. It prefers partial to full shade and can be a useful plant for difficult wet garden spots. However, it can be aggressive in favorable conditions and may require management to prevent it from becoming invasive. Gardeners should be aware of its potential to spread and should consider containment strategies if necessary.CC BY-SA 4.0