Polygonum equisetiforme Sm.

This species, a native of the Mediter­ranean region, is well worth growing for its distinct growth and abundant milky-white flowers produced in autumn. The plant consists of a dense mass of slender, mare’s-tail-like stems about as thick as a knitting needle and 2 or 3 ft high. It needs a warm sunny corner, and even then is often cut back by winter cold.