Description
This distinctive plant has ancient origins, part of a lineage that has changed little over millions of years. Native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, it grows low to the ground in moist meadows, along streambanks, and in open fields. Its hollow, jointed stems and fine, radiating branches give it a clean, graphic look.
Many plants share the name Horsetail, but Equisetum arvense is the species traditionally used for tea. Other members of the genus are not used this way, making identification important. Also known as Shavegrass, Scouring Rush, Bottlebrush, and Pewterwort, Horsetail was once used to polish tools and cookware. When brewed, it produces a light green infusion with a fresh, earthy aroma and a mild, grassy taste with a mineral edge.
