EQUISETUM - Equisetum hyemale - Equisetaceae (Horsetail) family
Spanish: Canutillo Del Llano
Common Name: Scouring Rush

This is a common mountain reedlike herb that can be found growing along streams and in swampy places. Aside from its medicinal qualities that have been said to aid people suffering from gonorrhea, this plant also has practical and whimsical uses. Its silica-filled epidermal cells made it useful as a dish mop during pioneer days in the Southwest. Its Spanish name, Canutillo, means little tube or pipe. Since the plant is hollowed and jointed, children often made whistles from its segments.