Running Clubmoss (Lycopodium clavatum)

Running Clubmoss

Lycopodium clavatum

It carpets forest floors with delicate evergreen fronds, a quiet groundcover gem. Evergreen perennial fern ally.

Low light
2–3/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Prefers dappled to full shade; avoid direct sunlight which scorches its delicate foliage
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Watering Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; avoid allowing the growing medium to dry out completely
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Temperature Thrives in cool, humid conditions; avoid temperatures above 22°C which causes leaf browning and stress
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Tiny, needle-like bright green leaves arranged densely along branching aerial stems
  • Strobili: Upright, club-shaped spore-bearing structures atop thin, unbranched stalks
  • Rhizome: Slender, creeping underground stem that enables widespread mat formation
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Care Guide

Watering

Maintain steady soil moisture; mist foliage regularly to boost ambient humidity

Fertilization

Diluted balanced organic feed once every 6 weeks. Avoid over-fertilization, which can burn fine root systems

Composted leaf mold tea:Brew fully composted hardwood leaf mold in water for 24 hours; dilute 1:20 for root drenching to avoid nutrient burn
Pruning
  • Trim yellowing or browning stems at the base to maintain a dense, tidy mat
  • Remove spent strobili after spore release to improve overall appearance
  • Thin overcrowded patches to increase airflow and reduce fungal growth risk
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA-verified non-toxic to cats; no known toxic compounds present

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no reported adverse health effects from ingestion or contact

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Shaded garden groundcover; closed terrarium ornamental plant