Elegia equisetacea, commonly known as Broom Reed, is an evergreen perennial grass native to the fynbos and coastal plains of the Cape region in South Africa. It typically grows to a height of 1-3 feet (0.3-0.9 meters) and a width of 3-5 feet (0.9-1.5 meters), forming dense tufts of dark green, reed-like stems. The plant’s appearance is characterized by its upright, jointed stems that resemble those of horsetails, and it produces small brown cones at the stem tips during the summer months, although these are not particularly showy. Broom Reed is valued for its architectural form and texture in the garden, providing year-round interest.

Broom Reed is appreciated for its low maintenance requirements and its ability to tolerate windy and coastal conditions, making it an excellent choice for seaside gardens, rockeries, and as an accent plant in mixed borders. It thrives in full sun and requires ample water, especially during the growing season, to mimic its native damp conditions. Well-drained soil is essential to prevent root rot. While generally pest-free, it can occasionally suffer from rust or fungal diseases in humid conditions. It is not known to be invasive outside its native range but should be monitored to prevent unwanted spread.CC BY-SA 4.0