Lycopodium scariosum

Tasmanian clubmoss

★

Taxonomy

Common Names

Tasmanian clubmossStiff clubmoss

Context

nativeRegion

Native to Australia, New Zealand, and some nearby Pacific islands.

usdaZones

Best suited for USDA zones 7–10 (as an understory or greenhouse plant).

companionPlants

Ferns, Mosses, Orchids, Shade-loving woodland perennials

culturalUses

Historically used by indigenous peoples for decorative and medicinal purposes. Sometimes cultivated for naturalistic gardens or terrariums.

Care

LightPrefers partial shade to dappled sunlight; avoid harsh direct sun.

WateringMaintain consistently moist soil, but do not let it become waterlogged. Avoid letting it dry out completely.

SoilLikes acidic, humus-rich, well-draining soil with added organic matter.

FertilizerFeed sparingly with a diluted, balanced fertilizer during the active growing season (spring and summer).

HumidityPrefers high humidity; consider misting or placing near a humidity source indoors.

TemperatureCool to moderate temperatures; ideal range 10–20°C (50–68°F). Avoid frost.

HabitCreeping, evergreen clubmoss forming mats or trailing stems.

Mature SizeStems typically 30–120 cm long, low-growing.

Growth RateSlow to moderate grower.

BloomingDoes not flower; produces spores on specialized cone-like structures (strobili) mainly in summer.

DormancyNo true dormancy, but growth slows in winter.

MethodsSpore sowing, Division of stems or rhizomes

DifficultyModerate (spore propagation can be tricky)

Best SeasonSpring to early summer for division; spores best sown when mature

PruningMinimal, just trim dead or damaged stems as needed.

RepottingInfrequent; only when plant has outgrown its container or mat.

Pests & DiseasesGenerally pest-free; root rot possible if kept too wet.

ToxicityNot considered toxic to humans or pets.

No public plants yet.