The Dutch Rush, Equisetum hyemale, is not a 'Rush' at all but a member of the 'Horsetail' group, fern relatives. It has vertical jointed reed-like stalks of medium to dark green. The hollow stems are up to 3 feet (0.91 m) in height. The stems are not branched with conspicuous ridges, impregnated with more silica than most of its relatives which makes them feel rough and harsh.

The tiny leaves are joined together around the stem, forming a narrow black-green band or sheath at each joint. The plant reproduces by spores in a 'strobilus' structure and does not produce flowers or seeds.

This is quite a rare plant in Ayrshire but is present in huge numbers at Dumfries House growing beside the Lugar Water.

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