Club moss (Lycopodium squarrosum)

Overview

Lycopodium squarrosum, widely recognized as Club moss, offers a truly distinctive textural element to tropical or subtropical landscapes. This evergreen, non-flowering perennial ally is cherished for its long, pendulous habit, forming spectacular curtains of green, fern-like foliage that can reach impressive lengths. While often mistaken for a true fern, it belongs instead to the ancient club moss family.

The primary appeal of the Club moss lies in its architectural drama. Mature stems of Lycopodium squarrosum can gracefully droop up to eight feet, creating high visual impact, particularly when suspended or allowed to cascade over retaining walls. These plants thrive in consistently moist, shady environments, mimicking their native rainforest habitat.

For gardeners in frost-free climates (USDA Zone 10 and warmer), integrating Lycopodium squarrosum adds a lush, structural layer. Its unique form provides unparalleled vertical interest where broad, flat foliage might otherwise dominate the shade garden.

Fast Facts

• Plant Family: Lycopodiaceae
• Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
• Native Range: Eastern Himalayas, Malaysia
• Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 10-12
• Size at Maturity:
  • Height: 3-8 ft
  • Spread: 1-3 ft
• Bloom Time: Non-flowering
• Sun Exposure: Part shade to full shade
• Water Needs: Medium
• Maintenance Level: Medium

How to Grow

The successful cultivation of Lycopodium squarrosum hinges on replicating its humid, sheltered forest origins. Plant in the best possible location during warmer months, ensuring excellent soil structure. The preferred growing medium is acidic, organically rich, and very well-drained, while maintaining consistent moisture levels without becoming waterlogged.

Establish a consistent watering routine reflective of its ‘Medium’ needs. While established plants are somewhat resilient, the Club moss is intolerant of drought and, critically, any freezing temperatures, limiting its use strictly to USDA Zone 10 minimum environments outdoors. Avoid over-fertilizing; standard feeding should support its growth, focusing instead on maintaining rich organic matter in the soil base.

Pruning is generally not required, as the natural habit of the drooping stems is highly desirable. Where winter temperatures dip below freezing, this plant must be treated as a conservatory specimen or greenhouse plant, offering protection from chill and promoting the long stem development characteristic of healthy Lycopodium squarrosum.

Landscape Uses

The dramatic habit of mature Lycopodium squarrosum makes it an amazing specimen plant for specialized applications. It excels when used in hanging baskets where its long, tassel-like appendages can cascade freely, creating a living curtain effect. Where winter hardiness is an issue, it performs exceptionally well as a feature plant inside a conservatory or greenhouse, often situated where its trailing stems can drape across high beams or shelves.

In sheltered outdoor gardens within Zones 10-12, use the Club moss high up on banks or walls where it can cascade down, establishing a vibrant green backdrop against stone or wood structures. Due to its shade requirements, it pairs well with other moisture-loving tropicals that appreciate dappled light, such as various bromeliads or shade-loving aroids.

Standout Features

Noteworthy Characteristics

Lycopodium squarrosum, commonly known as rock tassel fern, is an evergreen, non-flowering, epiphytic fern ally. Although classified as a fern, it is in fact not a true fern; it is a member of the club moss family. Its slender mature stems droop up to 3-8’ long, clad with small needle-like leaves, ending in tassel-like appendages. The genus name alludes to a supposed resemblance to a wolf’s foot, while the specific epithet references these recurved, tassel-like ends, which give the Club moss its common name.

Tolerances

• Intolerant of freezing temperatures

Potential Problems

No serious insect or disease problems are typically associated with Lycopodium squarrosum when cultural requirements are met. The greatest potential threat comes from incorrect soil moisture or temperature fluctuations. Ensure drainage is impeccable to prevent root rot, especially given its need for consistently moist soil. Protect this Club moss from direct, hot afternoon sun which can scorch the delicate foliage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What hardiness zones is Club moss suitable for?

Lycopodium squarrosum is specifically winter hardy to USDA Zone 10, extending upwards through Zone 12. It cannot tolerate freezing temperatures.

How large does Lycopodium squarrosum grow?

This species can achieve a significant size, with mature stems drooping between 3 and 8 feet long, while the overall spread remains relatively modest, typically 1 to 3 feet wide at the point of attachment.

What sun exposure does Lycopodium squarrosum need?

This Club moss requires protection from intense direct rays, thriving best in settings of part shade to full shade.

When does Lycopodium squarrosum bloom?

Lycopodium squarrosum is a non-flowering plant; it reproduces via spores, similar to ferns.

Conclusion

For dynamic texture and cascading grace in shaded tropical settings, Lycopodium squarrosum, the Club moss, remains an unmatched choice. Its structure, with stems reaching up to eight feet, offers architectural drama unrivalled by many other shade-loving perennials. If your garden falls within the warm Zones 10-12, plan to incorporate this spectacular plant into a hanging display or high wall planting for maximum effect.

Companion Planting

When designing a cool, constantly moist environment for Lycopodium squarrosum, select companions based on similar light and water profiles. Combine the Club moss with other moisture-loving shade dwellers that don’t compete vigorously for soil space if planted in the ground. Excellent partners include various species of ferns like the Christmas fern or soft shield fern, depending on your climate zone restrictions.

Consider using broad-leafed, low-growing tropicals that contrast texturally with the fine needles of Lycopodium squarrosum. Plants like Caladiums (for color) or low-mounding Hostas (where climates allow) can provide excellent ground cover contrast beneath the trailing foliage.

Design Ideas for Shade Gardens

The unique vertical element provided by the Club moss allows for creative design manipulation in shady areas. Use mature specimens to soften rigid vertical lines, such as the corners of greenhouses or shading the base of tall trees where their epiphytic nature is mimicked. Their drape creates natural, flowing transitions between hardscaping and planting beds.

In container arrangements, place Lycopodium squarrosum near the lip of a large, decorative pot or urn. Contrast its fine texture with bold foliage colors from flowering annuals that require indirect light during the hottest parts of the day. Ensure the container soil mix is acidic and porous to suit the Lycopodium’s preference for well-drained conditions.