Origin and Common Names
Lycopodiella ×copelandii (Eig.) Cranfill, also known as Copeland's bog clubmoss, is a plant species that belongs to the genus Lycopodiella in the family Lycopodiaceae. It is a natural hybrid that was first discovered in a bog in the state of North Carolina in 1945. The plant is named in honor of Edwin Bingham Copeland, an early 20th-century American botanist who specialized in the study of ferns and other spore-bearing plants.
Appearance
Copeland's bog clubmoss is a spore-bearing plant that is typically 8-20 cm long and has a creeping or ascending stem. The stem is thin and wiry, and it branches erratically, producing a dense mat of vegetation. The leaves of the plant are simple, small, and narrow, and are typically appressed to the stem. They are up to 1.5 cm long and 1-2 mm wide, and they have a pointed tip. The plant's spores are produced in spikes that are up to 6 cm long, which emerge from the ends of the branches. When the plant is mature, the spikes are green and erect, but they turn brown and recurved as they age.
Uses
Copeland's bog clubmoss has no known edible or medicinal uses, although some people enjoy growing it in their gardens or terrariums. The plant's ability to grow in wetlands makes it useful for erosion control and shoreline restoration projects. However, it is listed as a threatened species in several U.S. states due to habitat loss and degradation. Therefore, it is important to take measures to conserve this beautiful and unique plant.
Light Requirements
Lycopodiella ×copelandii (Eig.) Cranfill is a shade-loving plant, thriving best under partial sun exposure or in areas with filtered light. The plant cannot withstand direct sunlight, as it may cause leaf burn or even stunted growth. As such, it is best to plant the species in a location where it gets dappled light, such as under the canopy of trees or near a north-facing window.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows well in a wide range of temperatures, but it prefers an average to cool temperature. Optimum growth temperature for Lycopodiella ×copelandii (Eig.) Cranfill ranges from 68 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit (20 to 25 degrees Celsius). However, temperatures as low as 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius) and as high as 86 degrees Fahrenheit (30 degrees Celsius) will still allow the plant to grow under proper conditions.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers a soil medium that is well-drained and does not have a high content of organic matter. The ideal pH for the plant is slightly acidic, ranging from 5.5 to 6.5. To provide better drainage, incorporate sand, perlite, or vermiculite into the soil mixture. The plant is not very particular about soil fertility, and most potting mixes work well with it.
Cultivation methods
Lycopodiella ×copelandii is commonly known as Copeland's dwarf clubmoss and is a terrestrial perennial plant that thrives in temperate regions. To cultivate this plant, it is recommended to grow it in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers partially shaded locations with plenty of sunlight and cool temperatures.
Watering needs
Copeland's dwarf clubmoss prefers moist soil, so it is recommended to regularly water the plant to keep the soil damp but not waterlogged. Avoid overwatering the plant, as too much water can lead to root rot and other diseases. You can use a moisture meter to determine if the soil is too dry or too wet and adjust your watering schedule accordingly.
Fertilization
Lycopodiella ×copelandii does not require much fertilization, but you can use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring once new growth appears. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they can lead to excessive foliage growth and reduce the plant's overall health. Instead, use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Pruning
Copeland's dwarf clubmoss does not require much pruning, but you can selectively prune the plant to shape it and remove any dead or damaged growth. Use a pair of sharp pruning shears to make clean cuts, and avoid cutting into healthy growth. Prune the plant in late winter or early spring before new growth appears to encourage healthy growth and maintain its shape.
Propagation Methods of Lycopodiella ×copelandii
Lycopodiella ×copelandii (Eig.) Cranfill, also known as Copeland's bog clubmoss, is a hybrid plant that is a cross between Lycopodiella inundata and Lycopodiella appressa. It is a deciduous, perennial plant that is commonly used in landscaping due to its attractive foliage and ease of care. Propagation of Lycopodiella ×copelandii can be done through various methods.
Spore Propagation
Spore propagation is the most common method used to propagate Lycopodiella ×copelandii. To do this, collect mature sporangia from the plant and place them in a paper bag. Allow the sporangia to dry out and release their spores. Sow the spores on a moist, well-draining soil mixture and cover the container with plastic to maintain humidity. Keep the soil moist and in a shaded area until the spores germinate and start to produce small gametophytes. Once the gametophytes are established, transplant them into individual pots and grow them in a well-lit area for a few months before transplanting them to their permanent location.
Division Propagation
Another method for propagating Lycopodiella ×copelandii is through division propagation. This works best with mature plants that have been growing for a few years. Carefully dig up the entire plant and divide it into smaller sections, making sure that each section has several rhizomes and some foliage. Transplant the sections into a soil mixture that is rich in organic material and keep them moist until they are established in their new location.
Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation is a less common method used for propagating Lycopodiella ×copelandii. Take a stem cutting from the plant that is at least a few inches long and has several nodes. Dip the cutting in rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining soil mixture. Keep the soil moist and in a shaded area until the cutting has developed roots and starts to produce new growth. Once the cutting is established, transplant it into its permanent location.
Disease Management for Lycopodiella ×copelandii
Lycopodiella ×copelandii is relatively disease resistant, but prevention measures are still necessary to keep them healthy and avoid any potential issues. It is best to locate these plants in areas with adequate drainage since root rot can be a problem when the soil is consistently wet.
Additionally, maintaining good growing conditions, like appropriate light and temperature, can help prevent the development of any diseases. Proper spacing between plants with no overcrowding also works to lower the risk of fungal diseases.
Pest Management for Lycopodiella ×copelandii
A few pests can affect Lycopodiella ×copelandii, including mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects.
Mealybugs are sap-sucking pests that leave behind a sticky residue, which attracts other insects and serves as a breeding ground for fungal diseases. Removing them manually with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or neem oil spray can be effective.
Spiders and scales use their piercing-sucking mouthparts to remove plant juices from leaves and stems, causing discoloration and wilted leaves. Physically wiping them off with a damp cloth and applying insecticidal soap or neem oil spray can help control and deter their spread.
Overall, pest and disease management for Lycopodiella ×copelandii mainly involves preventing ideal conditions for infestation and dealing with any issues promptly to avoid further spread.
