Inundated Clubmoss
lycopodiella inundata
Also known as: ["Inundated Fir Moss","Swamp Clubmoss"]
Overview
A rare, low-growing, evergreen perennial with creeping stems and small, scale-like leaves, typically found in wet, acidic habitats.
Benefits & Perks
["rare/collector’s item","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Lycopodiophyta |
| Class: | Lycopodiopsida |
| Order: | Lycopodiales |
| Family: | Lycopodiaceae |
| Genus: | Lycopodiella |
| Botanical Name: | Lycopodiella inundata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: moist, shaded areas such as bog gardens or shaded woodland settings
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity
- Drainage: Moist but well-draining; should not dry out completely but must avoid waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Moist, acidic, peat-based soil with good organic matter content.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very high
- Toughness Level: very low
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically once or twice a year.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or yellowing fronds.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Low to medium indirect light; tolerates shade but prefers some filtered light for optimal growth.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to brighter light to prevent scorching; place in a shaded area outdoors or in a north-facing window indoors; avoid direct sunlight.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
expert onlymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct sun; provide dappled light; rotate plant occasionally for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days, or when top inch of soil is dry
Water thoroughly until water drains from the bottom; ensure soil remains evenly moist but not waterlogged; avoid letting roots sit in stagnant water.
Soil
moist, acidic, sandy or peaty soil
pH: Acidic, ideally between 4.5 and 6.0.
Keep soil consistently moist; use acidic soil amendments; ensure good aeration to prevent compaction.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 50–65°F (10–18°C); prefers cooler conditions, especially at night.
Keep away from drafts; maintain stable temperatures; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 2 months during active growth with diluted liquid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; apply to moist soil to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing in fall and winter.
Propagation
Methods
Spores or division of rhizomes; spore propagation is more common for this species.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Collect mature spores.
- Scatter spores on sterile medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
- Or divide rhizomes carefully and replant in fresh medium.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (60–70°F or 15–21°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Moist, sterile peat-based medium with good drainage; a mix of peat and perlite works well.
Hormone
Not necessary for spore propagation; for rhizome division, a rooting hormone can aid establishment.
Timeline
Spores may take several weeks to germinate; rhizome divisions establish in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sterile knife or scissors, propagation tray, misting bottle, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools to prevent fungal issues; maintain high humidity for spore germination; be patient with slow-growing spores.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip individual fronds at the base with clean, sharp scissors or pruners.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged fronds to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Sharp, clean scissors or small pruning shears.
Checklist
Use clean tools; remove only dead/damaged growth; avoid cutting into healthy fronds.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot one size larger (1–2 inches in diameter) than the current one.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot only when the plant becomes root-bound or the soil breaks down; typically every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Use fresh soil mix; ensure drainage holes are clear; handle roots gently; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture daily; water when top inch feels slightly dry; ensure proper drainage after each watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation; allow excess water to drain freely; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry before nightfall.
Watering Schedule Tips
Keep soil consistently moist, especially during active growth; reduce watering slightly in winter but do not allow soil to dry out completely.
Soil Improvement
Add peat moss or sphagnum moss to retain moisture; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; ensure consistent moisture retention.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; browning or drying of foliage in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and can cause root damage if temperatures drop below 40°F (4°C); may lead to fungal issues in overly cold, damp conditions.
Solution: Protect from frost; maintain consistent temperatures above 40°F (4°C); ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal growth.
Hot Stress
Can cause leaf burn, dehydration, and reduced vigor; may lead to root rot if overwatered in high heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a humidifier; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; apply during growing season only; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLycopodiella inundata is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not produce any known harmful compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicLycopodiella inundata is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not produce any known harmful compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicLycopodiella inundata is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Lycopodiella inundata easy to grow?
A: No, it is challenging to cultivate and requires specific wet, acidic conditions.
Q: Where is Lycopodiella inundata typically found?
A: It is found in wet, acidic habitats such as bogs and wet heathlands.
Q: Is Lycopodiella inundata toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lycopodiaceae |
| Care: | expert only |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, or when top |
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