Dense Clubmoss
pseudolycopodium densum
Also known as: ["Dense Ground Pine","Dense Lycopodium"]
Overview
A low-growing, evergreen groundcover with creeping stems and small, scale-like leaves, forming dense mats in shaded, moist environments.
Benefits & Perks
["shade tolerant","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Lycopodiophyta |
| Class: | Lycopodiopsida |
| Order: | Lycopodiales |
| Family: | Lycopodiaceae |
| Genus: | Pseudolycopodium |
| Botanical Name: | Pseudolycopodium densum |
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":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; avoid placing near hot windows.
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, acidic soil with peat moss
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; refresh soil every 2–3 years.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoid frost; prefers stable conditions without extreme fluctuations.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent room temperature.
Fertilizing
every 2 months during active growth (spring and summer)
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Apply rooting hormone if using.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots to form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and warm temperatures (65–75°F) promote rooting.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth may take 2–4 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node; avoid cutting into old wood.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or leggy growth.
Tools
Clean pruning shears or scissors, disinfectant.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil refresh.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with drainage; gently remove plant; trim roots if crowded; add fresh soil; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
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 coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like peat moss for moisture retention.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, wilting, stunted growth, or bud drop indicate temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or leaf drop.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid placing near drafty windows or cold surfaces.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf scorch, or wilting.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; 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
Non-toxicPseudolycopodium densum 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-toxicPseudolycopodium densum 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-toxicPseudolycopodium densum 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: How does Pseudolycopodium densum reproduce?
A: It reproduces via spores produced in sporangia on specialized stems.
Q: Is Pseudolycopodium densum suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: It is primarily an outdoor plant, thriving in shaded, moist environments.
Q: What are the ideal growing conditions for Pseudolycopodium densum?
A: It prefers partial to full shade, moist but well-drained soil, and cool temperatures.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lycopodiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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