Species Alaska Moonwort

Alaska Moonwort

Botrychium alaskense

The Alaskan Moonwort is a perennial species of fern found in alpine tundra primarily in the mountains of south-central Alaska. Growing up to 4 inches tall and having weak stems and sparsely branched short rhizomes, the Alaskan Moonwort features impressive, fan-shaped clusters of foliage that include distinctively round, leathery-textured leaflets often spotted with darker points. The leaflets form an attractive, wavy pattern in flight. With a distinct preference for moist, cool environments, the Alaskan Moonwort is ideally suited to grow in Alaska's seasonal snow and low-sunlight conditions. Its ability to withstand cold temperatures, snow and shade has made it an attractive ornamental to gardeners living in similar climates.

Watering:

Average

Hardiness Zone:

Flowers:

White/Cream|Green/Brown Flowers

Sun:

Sun, Partial Shade

Soil:

Sand, Loam

Fruits:

brown,tan Fruits Ready In Fall.

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Smooth Rockcress should be watered heavily and regularly during the spring and summer when it is actively growing. Water should be applied until the soil is moist all the way through, but should not be saturated. During the winter months, water only enough to keep the soil from drying out, usually once every 1-2 weeks. During periods of extreme drought or heat, this plant may need to be watered as often as every other day.

sunlight

Smooth Rockcress (Borodinia laevigata (Muhlenberg ex Willdenow) P.J. Alexander & Windham) prefers full sun to partial shade. For optimal growth, it should receive at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight every day. It is also tolerant of high heat and drought. To encourage flowering, provide the plant with several hours of sun during the morning hours. If planted in a partially shaded location, ensure that it receives several hours of dappled sunshine per day. Avoid planting in excessively shady locations as this will reduce flowering and reduce the overall vigor of the plant.

pruning

Smooth Rockcress (Borodinia laevigata (Muhlenberg ex Willdenow) P.J. Alexander & Windham) plants do best when pruned early and lightly. Pruning can help maintain the height and shape of the plant, as well as promote new branching and more flowering. The best time to prune Smooth Rockcress is in early spring, just before it begins to flower. If this plant is not pruned annually, it will become leggy, sprawling, and potentially take over nearby plants. Prune Smooth Rockcress back to about half its original length, or to the desired height and shape. If it becomes too tall or wide, cut the stems to the desired shape and size. Remove spent flower heads in spring and summer as needed; this will help promote more flowers over the course of the season.

Propagation