Species Boreal Moonwort
yellow fruits with lime foliage and stems

Boreal Moonwort

Botrychium boreale

Also Known As - Northern Moonwort,Northern Grapefern
The Boreal Moonwort (Botrychium boreale) is a delicate fern-like plant native to the cool temperate climates of North America and Eurasia. Growing in a tuft of fan shaped fronds, the Boreal Moonwort ranges between 5-30 cm in height and has a cleft leaf arrangement, accentuated by its distinctive crescent-shaped sporangia. Its fertile leaflets are purple-brown in colour, while the main fronds are reddish to olive colour, covered in various scales and tiny hairs. Growing under young deciduous trees in damp, shady areas, Boreal Moonwort’s hardy nature has allowed it to survive in harsher climates for centuries.

Watering:

Minimum

Propagation:

Rhizome Propagation,Seed Propagation,Cutting

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

filtered shade,part shade

Growth Rate:

Low

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Boreal Moonwort (Botrychium boreale) is best kept moist and should be watered deeply, approximately twice a month. During the summer months, it is important to avoid over-watering, as excessive water can result in the plant's cells becoming waterlogged and the roots drowning. During the dry season, ensure that the soil remains adequately moist, but not overly wet. Water once in a while, making sure the soil is allowed to dry out in between waterings. In the wintertime, the frequency of watering should be drastically reduced. The Boreal Moonwort is a drought-tolerant species that can survive with less water, so only water when the soil has completely dried out, about once every 3-4 weeks.

sunlight

Boreal Moonwort thrives in dappled shade, preferring bright indirect light. It will tolerate exposure to direct morning sun, but no more than an hour per day, and should be protected from the hottest midday sun. This plant species requires 8-10 hours of sunlight daily during the growing season and prefers morning sun during the summer months. During colder months, it should be given 5-6 hours of sunlight each day. Unfortunately, it will not tolerate very long days of continuous light and shading may be necessary.

pruning

Pruning is rarely necessary for this species, since it is so low-maintenance. However, if desired, selective pruning can be done in late spring (April/May) to remove any dead, diseased, or damaged stems. Any pruning should be minimal – only remove stems when absolutely necessary. Over-pruning can result in thin, sparse foliage which can reduce the plant’s health.