Equisetum laevigatum

(Smooth Scouring-rush)

_DSC1056%20copy

Equisetum laevigatum, FR 265, Gunnsion Co. 8362

_DSC1056%20copy

Equisetum laevigatum, FR 265, Gunnsion Co. 8373

_DSC1056%20copy

Equisetum laevigatum, FR 265, Gunnsion Co. 8397

_DSC1056%20copy

Equisetum laevigatum, FR 265, Gunnsion Co. 8411

Scientific Name Equisetum laevigatum USDA PLANTS Symbol EQLA
Common Name Smooth Scouring-rush, Smooth Horsetail ITIS Taxonomic Serial No. 17156
Family Equisetaceae (Horsetail) SEINet
Reference
Click Here
Description Life zones and habitat: Plains to montane (3500 to 11000 ft.); moist, open areas, streamsides.
Plant: Annual 8 inches to 5 feet tall; smooth stems with distinct nodes; usually unbranched.
Leaves: Green sheath at each node with a single black band around the top, tipped with a row of tiny black pointed teeth.
Inflorescence: Single, brown, cone-shaped spore-producing structure (strobilus) atop each stem; conical shape with rounded tip.
References: SW Colorado Wildflowers, Wildflowers of the Southern Rocky Mountains, and SEINet.
BONAP Distribution Map


Map Color Key
Colorado Status:
Native

© Tom Lebsack 2024

Banner photo: Castilleja rhexifolia and a brewing storm over the San Juan Mountains