The diagnostic features of this horsetail are that the central hollow is very small and that the sheaths are loose and have black teeth with white edges. Still not easy to identify though.

E. palustre is found throughout mainland Britain but there are one or two areas in southern Ireland where it is scarce.

Edge of Hatchmere, Cheshire 9th May 2005

Added on 9th May 2005, updated 1st January 2008, updated 29th March 2010