Common Clubmoss
lycopodium clavatum
Also known as: ["Wolf's Foot Clubmoss","Running Pine"]
Overview
A creeping, evergreen perennial with creeping stems and small, scale-like leaves arranged in spirals.
Benefits & Perks
["shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Lycopodiophyta |
| Class: | Lycopsida |
| Order: | Lycopodiales |
| Family: | Lycopodiaceae |
| Genus: | Lycopodium |
| Botanical Name: | Lycopodium clavatum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: shady woodland areas or shaded rock gardens
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, acidic to neutral soil mix with peat moss, sand, and organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or when fronds decline.
- Pruning Intensity: Light; focus on removing damaged or old growth without altering plant shape.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerate partial shade; adjust for intensity in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct sun to avoid scorching; place in filtered light indoors or dappled shade outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct light; avoid south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, humus-rich soil
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Ensure soil is loose and airy; avoid heavy clay mixes; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoid frost; maintain stable conditions year-round.
Avoid drafts; use a thermometer to monitor; group plants to maintain microclimate.
Fertilizing
every 2 months during active growth (spring and summer)
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Spores or division; spore propagation is more common for Lycopodium clavatum.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Collect spores.
- Scatter on sterile medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
- Or divide clumps carefully and replant.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Moist sphagnum moss or sterile potting mix with perlite.
Hormone
Not required for spore propagation; division may benefit from rooting hormone.
Timeline
Spores may take 1–3 months to germinate; division roots within 2–4 weeks.
Tools Needed
Spore collection kit, sterile knife, pots, humidity dome, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use a fine sieve for spore distribution; maintain consistent moisture; label new plants.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip individual fronds at the base with clean cuts; avoid cutting into healthy growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; remove dead or yellowing fronds to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Pruning shears, scissors, or sharp knife.
Checklist
Check for dead/damaged fronds; sterilize tools; prune carefully; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for soil refreshment.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution to the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate peat moss for acidity; use organic compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or browning tips in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage in freezing conditions.
Solution: Protect from frost; move indoors in winter; maintain consistent temperatures above 50°F (10°C).
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLycopodium clavatum spores are not considered toxic to cats. No significant adverse effects have been reported from ingestion.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicThe spores of Lycopodium clavatum are not known to be toxic to dogs. There is no evidence of adverse physiological effects from ingestion.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicLycopodium clavatum spores are generally considered non-toxic to humans. They are not known to cause significant physiological effects when ingested in small quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Lycopodium clavatum a true moss?
A: No, it is a clubmoss, which is a vascular plant, not a true moss.
Q: How does Lycopodium clavatum reproduce?
A: It reproduces via spores produced in sporangia on specialized stems.
Q: Can Lycopodium clavatum be grown indoors?
A: It prefers outdoor conditions, especially shaded, moist environments, but can be grown indoors with high humidity and indirect light.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lycopodiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
