Species Alaska Moonwort
lime leaves with green stems and brown-green fruits

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:

Minimal

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Division,Offsets,Layering Propagation,Cutting

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

part shade,full shade

Growth Rate:

Low

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Alaska moonwort should be watered about once every 10-14 days during the growing season, from early spring to late summer. Water deeply enough that the soil is moistened to a depth of 2 to 3 inches. Water until the soil is evenly moist and then allow the top inch or so of soil to dry before watering again. Avoid frequent light waterings as this can encourage shallow root growth and may result in the plant wilting mid-day. In winter, water occasionally only when the soil is completely dry.

sunlight

Alaska Moonwort (Botrychium alaskense) grows best in bright, indirect sunlight throughout the day. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, however, too much direct sun can burn it. The plant should receive enough light to maintain a bright green color, but not enough to cause wilting. It is best to place Alaska Moonwort in a location where it receives at least 4 hours of sunlight per day. The optimal amount of light for Alaska Moonwort is 8-10 hours per day. During the summer, it is best to provide direct sun during the early morning and late afternoon, while avoiding the harshest sunlight of the day during the mid-afternoon when temperatures are high.

pruning

Alaska Moonwort (Botrychium alaskense) should be pruned annually in late winter or early spring to promote new growth. Prune off any dead or damaged stems, as well as any that are crossing or growing too close to each other. Cut all stems back to about 3 inches in length. This will encourage the production of new leaves and stems. Deadheading faded flowers can also help promote new growth. Make sure not to prune too much, as too much cutting can stress the plant.