Species Stalked Moonwort
brown sporangia with green leaves and stems

Stalked Moonwort

Botrychium pedunculosum

Stalked Moonwort (Botrychium pedunculosum) is a sterile fern commonly found growing in woodland clearings and damp grassy areas. It has fan-shaped leaves with heavily-veined uppersides and white undersides. The leaves are arranged in a single whorl around the stalk. The plants can grow up to 15 centimetres high and the fertile fronds are often protruding from the centre. Young plants can often be found with bright yellow green leaves. It is a rare and special species that benefits from protection to ensure this delicate species is conserved.

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Rhizome Propagation,Spore Propagation,Grafting Propagation,Tissue Culture

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

part shade,filtered shade

Soil:

Sand, Loam, Humus Enriched

Growth Rate:

Low

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Water the plants regularly, keeping the soil moist but not soggy. This can be accomplished by providing weekly irrigation during the hot summer months; however, be sure to back off watering in the cooler months. A good strategy is to water in the morning or early evening 3 times per week in the summer, and once every 2 weeks or so in the spring and fall.

sunlight

Stalked Moonwort (Botrychium pedunculosum) grows best in partial shade to light shade, meaning it should receive 2-4 hours of direct sunlight a day. However, since intensity of sunlight can vary greatly depending on the location and season, this species will benefit most from indirect or filtered sunlight. It is best to provide the plant with some direct morning sun, and to avoid providing midday or afternoon sunlight due to its potential for burning the leaves. During summer months, some afternoon shade may be helpful in providing the plant with some relief from the intense heat of the summer sun.

pruning

Stalked Moonwort should not be pruned at all. In fact, the plant should not even be disturbed. It is a rare species, so any trimming or interference with the root system could cause the species to become even rarer. Stalked Moonwort should only be handled with extreme care and when absolutely necessary.