Ground Pine
diphasiastrum complanatum
Also known as: ["Ground Cedar","Princess Pine"]
Overview
A low-growing, evergreen clubmoss with creeping stems and scale-like leaves arranged in two ranks, forming dense mats.
Benefits & Perks
["shade tolerant","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Lycopodiophyta |
| Class: | Lycopodiopsida |
| Order: | Lycopodiales |
| Family: | Lycopodiaceae |
| Genus: | Diphasiastrum |
| Botanical Name: | Diphasiastrum complanatum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: shaded rock gardens, woodland settings, or as a ground cover under trees
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, acidic to neutral soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically annually or when dead fronds are present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; tolerates partial shade.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to brighter light to prevent scorching; ideal for shaded indoor areas or dappled outdoor light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct sun; rotate plant for even growth; adjust light in winter.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, acidic soil with high organic matter
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Ensure good drainage; maintain slightly acidic pH; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoid frost.
Avoid extreme fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
every 2 months during active growth (spring and summer)
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Spores or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Collect spores or divide rhizomes.
- Prepare medium.
- Plant spores or rhizomes.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for growth.
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 spores; optional for rhizome division to encourage root growth.
Timeline
Spores may take several months to germinate; rhizome division roots in 2–4 weeks.
Tools Needed
Spore collection tray, sterilized knife, pots, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use fresh spores for best results; keep medium consistently moist; avoid disturbing young plants.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip dead or yellowing fronds at the base with clean cuts.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; focus on removing dead or damaged fronds to maintain appearance.
Tools
Clean scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Inspect for dead fronds; use clean tools; remove carefully; dispose of debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage.
Method
Use a well-draining soil mix; gently tease out roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil.
Suggestions
Repot only when the plant becomes root-bound or every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Check root boundness; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution without saturating the soil; allow excess water to drain away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate peat moss for acidity and moisture retention.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; avoid sudden temperature drops.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt or turn brown in excessive heat; growth may slow.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; ensure adequate water but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.
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
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest Diphasiastrum complanatum. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause adverse effects in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Diphasiastrum complanatum can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic but may cause discomfort if consumed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicDiphasiastrum complanatum contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The plant is not highly toxic but can induce adverse effects if ingested in significant quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Diphasiastrum complanatum a true pine?
A: No, it is a clubmoss, not a true pine.
Q: Does Ground Pine require full sun?
A: No, it prefers partial to full shade.
Q: Is this plant toxic to pets?
A: Toxicity data is limited, so it is best to keep pets away from it.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lycopodiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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