Smooth scouring-rush
Equisetum laevigatum
Care
part shade
moderate
Fast; Prefers loamy or clay soils. Grows poorly in sandy soils.
3–6ft tall
Mar-May
Resistant
Friendly
Throughout California in wetlands and riparian areas, sea level to 10000 ft elevation, extending to Oregon and east.
Care Guide
Planting
Plant your smooth scouring rush in part shade in a location with consistently moist soil - it thrives in wet habitats and moist areas. Choose a spot with loamy or clay soil and fast drainage; avoid sandy soils where this plant grows poorly. Space it where it has room to reach its full height of 3 to 6 feet. Plant in spring during its active growing season for best establishment.
After Planting
Water regularly to keep the soil moist through your first summer; this plant is moisture-loving and will struggle if allowed to dry out completely. Once established in year two, you can reduce supplemental watering as the plant adapts to your garden's natural moisture patterns. Pruning needs are minimal - simply remove any dead or damaged stems as needed. The biggest mistake people make is planting in sandy soil or letting the plant dry out; smooth scouring rush is not drought-tolerant and needs consistent moisture to thrive.
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Endangered & Threatened Species Supported
Listed under ESA and CESA
Listed as Endangered under CESA; Species of Special Concern due to habitat loss and disease
California Species of Special Concern; Declining due to disease and habitat loss
Wildlife Supported
Amphibians
riparian habitat structure during breeding and tadpole development
cover and microhabitat in riparian zones
Birds
foraging habitat adjacent to nesting areas in riparian corridors
coastal wetland habitat structure where present