Alpine Clubmoss
diphasiastrum alpinum
Also known as: ["Alpine Fir Moss","Alpine Ground Pine"]
Overview
A low-growing, evergreen perennial with creeping stems and needle-like leaves, native to alpine and subalpine regions.
Benefits & Perks
["cold hardy","shade tolerant","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Lycopodiophyta |
| Class: | Lycopodiopsida |
| Order: | Lycopodiales |
| Family: | Lycopodiaceae |
| Genus: | Diphasiastrum |
| Botanical Name: | Diphasiastrum alpinum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: shaded rock gardens or woodland settings
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–7"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, acidic soil with organic matter like peat moss.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically once or twice a year.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light; 4–6 hours of filtered sunlight per day. Adjust for seasonal light intensity.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to brighter light; protect from direct sun to prevent scorching; place in a shaded outdoor spot if moved outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct sunlight; provide filtered light; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
moist, well-draining, acidic soil with high organic matter
pH: Acidic, pH 5.0–6.0.
Use acidic soil mix; ensure fast drainage; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Cool temperatures, ideally 50–65°F (10–18°C). Prefers cooler conditions year-round.
Keep in cool environment; avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from extreme heat or cold.
Fertilizing
rarely, with a diluted liquid fertilizer every 3–4 months during active growth
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize only when actively growing; stop in fall/winter.
Propagation
Methods
Spores or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Collect spores or divide rhizomes.
- Prepare medium.
- Plant spores or divisions.
- Maintain humidity and light.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and consistent cool temperatures.
Medium
Spore propagation on moist, sterile peat moss; division in standard potting mix.
Hormone
Not applicable for spores; division does not require hormone.
Timeline
Spores may take several months to germinate; division can establish in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Spore collection kit, sterile knife, pots, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools for division; maintain high humidity for spore germination; be patient with spore propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead or yellowing fronds at the base.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; remove dead or damaged fronds as needed to maintain appearance.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Inspect for dead/damaged fronds; use clean tools; remove only necessary fronds.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Use a well-draining soil mix; gently tease out roots; place in a pot one size larger with fresh soil.
Suggestions
Repot only when the plant becomes root-bound or every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Check root boundness; use fresh soil; ensure proper drainage; handle roots gently.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water at root zone; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture without saturating the soil. Water early in the day to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add peat moss or perlite to improve drainage and acidity; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing, or browning of foliage; stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Can tolerate cold but may become dormant; prolonged freezing can damage roots.
Solution: Protect from frost; ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging in cold; mulch lightly if outdoors.
Hot Stress
Heat can cause dehydration, wilting, and leaf burn; may go dormant in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during growing season only.
Fertilizing Method
Use a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms if they ingest Diphasiastrum alpinum. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause discomfort and should be avoided.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Diphasiastrum alpinum can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant's toxicity is not severe but can cause discomfort and distress in pets.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicDiphasiastrum alpinum contains toxic compounds that can cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal distress upon ingestion. The plant's effects are primarily localized to the digestive system, with minimal systemic absorption.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Diphasiastrum alpinum toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.
Q: How should I care for Alpine Clubmoss?
A: It requires cool temperatures, high humidity, and partial to full shade.
Q: Can Alpine Clubmoss be grown indoors?
A: It is challenging to grow indoors due to its specific alpine habitat requirements.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lycopodiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| 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
