Species Pale Moonwort

Pale Moonwort

Botrychium pallidum

Pale Moonwort (Botrychium pallidum) is a rare, mostly subterranean fern found in meadows, woodlands, and grasslands across much of Europe, northern Asia, and the United States. It usually grows in patches of several plants with a single, unobtrusive above-ground leaf and a monomorphic collection of underground, scale-like leaves. Its nearly colorless foliage makes it difficult to spot in its native habitat. Its bright red-brown spore cases are its only above-ground part which set it apart from other ferns. It is considered threatened in many areas but is popular among fern enthusiasts.

Watering:

Minimum

Propagation:

Division,Cutting,Seed Propagation,Spore Propagation,Tissue Culture

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

filtered shade,part shade

Soil:

Sand

Growth Rate:

Low

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Pale Moonworts should be watered moderately and infrequently. During the growing season from April to August, water the plant every 2-3 weeks with 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) of water. During the rest of the year, the soil should be kept fairly dry, watering the plants only when the soil is completely dry. Overwatering is not recommended, as it can damage the delicate plant roots.

sunlight

Pale Moonwort prefers shaded areas and its ideal environment should provide dappled or filtered sunlight throughout the day. When planted in garden beds or pots, Pale Moonwort should not be exposed to direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day. Sunlight should be limited to around 4-6 hours per day. Additionally, Pale Moonwort does not require direct sunlight. Therefore, it is best to provide partial shade for this species using a sheer curtain or sunhat on a hot afternoon.

pruning

Pale Moonwort does not need to be pruned and does not respond well to pruning. Since this plant species is an herbaceous perennial and dies back each year, some of the foliage can be gently removed in late fall or early winter if desired, but it is not required or recommended.