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Equisetum hyemale Dutch rush (1 Page of 5) The Equisetum hyemale plant species is found in Britain. It is a member of the Equisetaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Dutch rush. Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses Latin Name: Equisetum hyemale Common Name: Dutch rush Family: Equisetaceae Author: L. Known Hazards: Large quantities of the plant can be toxic. This is because it contains the enzyme thiaminase[172], a substance that can rob the body of the vitamin B complex[65]. In small quantities this enzyme will do no harm to people eating an adequate diet that is rich in vitamin B, though large quantities can cause severe health problems. The enzyme is destroyed by heat or thorough drying, so cooking the plant will remove the thiaminase[172].
The plant also contains equisetic acid - see the notes on medicinal uses for more information[213]. Mature Height: 1 Mature Width: Habitat: Shady streambanks etc, to 500 metres[17].
Propagation Notes: Spores - best collected as soon as they are ripe in the spring and surface-sown immediately on a sterile compost. Keep moist and pot up as soon as the plants are large enough to handle. Very difficult[200].
Division. The plants usually spread very freely when well sited and should not really need any assistance.
For further Equisetum hyemale gardening information click on one of the blue links below Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses
The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'. View their bibliography

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