Distinguishing the non-poisonous field horsetail, also known as horsetail, from poisonous horsetail species is not easy. There is a great risk of confusion, especially with the marsh horsetail. You can use these characteristics to determine field horsetail.

The field horsetail looks like a small coniferous tree

What does field horsetail look like?

At first glance, horsetail looks a bit like a conifer, although of course much smaller.

The brown spore shoots appear first in spring, on which a spike of spores forms at the top. It carries the spores that the plant uses to reproduce.

The spore shoots pull themselves back into the ground from May. Then the green shoots appear with the typical leaf whorls, which can reach a height of 30 to 50 centimeters.

Features for determining field horsetail

  • Color of spore shoots: brown
  • Color of shoots: green
  • sprouts: knotless, brownish
  • Stem cross-section: hollow, ribbed
  • Number of leaf-sheath teeth: corresponds to number of ribs

In order to clearly identify field horsetail and to rule out any risk of confusion with marsh horsetail, pick a stalk and cut it in half. This allows you to clearly see the cross section.

An important feature is the width of the stem. In contrast to the marsh horsetail, the stems of horsetail are wider than three millimeters.

Where does field horsetail grow?

As the name suggests, horsetail is common in fields. It grows wherever the earth is heavily compacted.

Horsetail is a location indicator that indicates waterlogging. Apart from fields, it grows on field edges, on damp meadows and in gardens with very solid soil. It also likes to spread in the lawn.

Plant horsetail in the garden

One way to rule out confusion with poisonous species is to plant field horsetail in the garden - if there isn't already some there.

However, since the plant spreads very quickly and can hardly be controlled, you should grow it in a pot. Then the horsetail cannot multiply via the rhizomes. You should cut off the spore ears as soon as possible so that the field horsetail cannot spread via spores.

tips

If you are not sure whether you are really looking at field horsetail, it is better to be on the safe side. If confused with marsh horsetail, there is a risk of poisoning. Field horsetail is available as an extract or dried herb in garden shops or pharmacies.

Category:

Herbs