Equisetum

Common Names: Equisetum, Horsetail
Botanical names: Equisetum, (ek-wi-SEE-tum)
Availability: Year round
Vase life: 7 - 14 days
Storage temperatures: 36 - 38 degrees Fahrenheit
Ethylene Sensitive: No
Description: Long, slender, dramatically segmented stems. The leaves are tiny scales found at the joints. A cone shaped spike bearing spores is formed on the top mature stems.
Color: Dark green
Botanical facts: The name is from the Latin words equis (horse) and seta (bristle).
Design notes: A wonderful line material. Easily manipulated into abstract shapes. A very popular material in contemporary design.
Purchasing hints: Purchase supple, dark green stems showing no visible damage.
Conditioning: Cut with a sharp knife. Hydrate in a solution of water and commercial floral preservative / floral food for two hours before storage or usage.
Additional notes: Equisetum dries easily and is a good but more fragile dried material.