Equisetum hyemale is a member of an ancient family of plants - Mare's tails - which were on the earth millions of years ago. It is a British native which grows in water or damp earth. The common name Scouring Rush comes from the fact that the stems, which are ridged, were used (before the advent of the "Brillo Pad"!) for cleaning pans. It is a fascinating plant which spreads by underground runners, and propagates itself by spores from cone-like structures at the top of mature stems. Although the plant is related to the pernicious weed, Horsetail, it is not nearly so invasive, and produces neat clumps with only the occasional stem straying, which is easily dug up if not wanted. I use this plant a lot in my flower arranging for its form and texture. It is also capable of being bent into shapes such as triangles, and woven. It also dries well, keeping its colour for a long time. A "must have" plant which is often available from water garden centres.