Origin
Lycopodium complanatum L. ssp. chamicyparissus (A. Braun) Nyman, commonly known as groundcedar, is a species of fern that is native to North America and Eurasia. It is a member of the family Lycopodiaceae and can be found in temperate and boreal forests, meadows, and rocky areas.Common Names
Groundcedar is known by several common names, including running cedar, creeping cedar, and princess pine. These names stem from its growth habit, which resembles that of cedar trees, but it is not related to the cedar species.Uses
Groundcedar has a long history of use in traditional medicine due to its high content of lycopodine alkaloids. It has been used by Native American tribes to treat a variety of ailments, including skin diseases, fevers, rheumatism, and digestive problems. Additionally, the plant has been used in the production of cosmetics, perfumes, and insecticides.General Appearance
Groundcedar is a low-growing evergreen plant that reaches a height of 3 to 6 inches and spreads to form a mat-like groundcover. It has numerous creeping stems that are flat and green, hence its Latin name complanatum, meaning "flattened." The stems are densely covered in small, scale-like leaves that are arranged in two rows. In the spring, groundcedar produces small cone-shaped structures that house its reproductive spores. Overall, it has a delicate and graceful appearance that adds a unique texture to a woodland landscape.Light Requirements
Lycopodium complanatum L. ssp. chamicyparissus (A. Braun) Nyman, commonly known as ground cedar, prefers to grow in partially shaded areas. It can tolerate full sun, but it needs protection from the hottest part of the day. When grown in full shade, the plant becomes weak and thin. Therefore, it is essential to provide an optimum level of light for the plant to thrive.
Temperature Requirements
Ground cedar grows best in cooler climates. It prefers temperatures between 60? to 70? during the day and 50? to 60? at night. Temperatures above 80? can cause the plant to wilt and die. Conversely, lower temperatures can lead to stunted growth and a weakened immune system.
Soil Requirements
The ground cedar plant prefers well-draining soil. It needs soil that is slightly acidic to neutral, with a pH level between 5.5 and 7.0. It thrives in soil rich in nutrients such as nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus. Sandy loam soil is the best type for the species as it provides optimal drainage and aeration. The plant can also grow in rocky soil with adequate organic matter to hold moisture.
Cultivation
Lycopodium complanatum L. ssp. chamicyparissus (A. Braun) Nyman is a hardy plant that can grow in various soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. It thrives in partial or full shade with a preference for cool, moist environments.
The plant can be grown from spores or transplanted from rhizomes. To grow from spores, it is best to sow them on the soil surface in the autumn and keep the soil consistently moist. Germination usually occurs in the spring.
When transplanting, ensure that the rhizomes are planted close to the surface, but not exposed. The plant should be watered immediately after planting and kept moist until established, which takes about a month or two.
Watering Needs
Lycopodium complanatum L. ssp. chamicyparissus (A. Braun) Nyman requires consistent moisture in the soil to thrive. During dry spells, it may need watering once or twice a week, depending on the soil type and the location's temperature.
It is best to water the plant early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce evaporation and prevent waterlogging. Using a drip irrigation system is ideal for this plant as it allows for consistent moisture levels.
Fertilization
Due to its minimal nutrient needs, Lycopodium complanatum L. ssp. chamicyparissus (A. Braun) Nyman does not require fertilization. However, if the plant is growing slowly or producing yellow leaves, a light dose of a balanced fertilizer may be necessary.
The fertilizer should be applied in the spring or early summer and should not be overdone as the plant is sensitive to high nutrient levels.
Pruning
The plant requires minimal pruning but benefits from the occasional removal of dead or damaged fronds. Pruning should be done in the spring or early summer before new growth appears.
To prune, use clean and sharp pruners to cut the fronds directly from the rhizome. Avoid cutting the rhizomes as this can damage the plant.
By following these cultivation and care guidelines, you can ensure your Lycopodium complanatum L. ssp. chamicyparissus (A. Braun) Nyman plant thrives and remains healthy.
Propagation of Lycopodium complanatum L. ssp. chamicyparissus
Lycopodium complanatum L. ssp. chamicyparissus can be propagated vegetatively through rhizomes or sexually through spores.
Vegetative propagation
The most common method of vegetative propagation is through the use of rhizomes. Rhizomes are underground stems that produce roots and shoots. To propagate Lycopodium complanatum L. ssp. chamicyparissus through rhizomes, select a healthy parent plant and locate an active rhizome near the surface of the soil. Carefully remove the rhizome from the parent and replant it in a new location. It is important to keep the soil moist during the initial growth phase.
Sexual propagation
Lycopodium complanatum L. ssp. chamicyparissus produces spores that can be used for sexual propagation. The spores are produced in sporangia, which are small structures that are found on the underside of fronds. To propagate Lycopodium complanatum L. ssp. chamicyparissus through spores, collect mature fronds and shake them over a piece of paper to collect the spores. Sprinkle the spores over a pot filled with sterilized soil and keep the soil moist. The spores will germinate over several weeks, and the new plants can be transplanted once they are a few inches tall.
Disease Management
Lycopodium complanatum L. ssp. chamicyparissus is generally resistant to most plant diseases, but it is still susceptible to some fungal infections. The most common fungal infections that might affect this plant include Pythium root rot, fungal leaf spot, and powdery mildew.
To manage Pythium root rot, avoid overwatering the plant as this disease thrives in soggy soil. Use a well-draining soil mix and make sure to water the plant only when the top inch of the soil is dry. Fungal leaf spot can be managed by removing and destroying infected leaves. If the infection is severe, apply a fungicide as per the package instructions. For powdery mildew, manage it by avoiding overhead watering and maintaining good air circulation around the plant. Spraying the plant with a horticultural oil or sulfur-based fungicide can also help manage the disease.
Pest Management
Although Lycopodium complanatum L. ssp. chamicyparissus is generally pest resistant, some insect pests might occasionally affect the plant. The most common pests that might affect this plant include spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects.
To manage spider mites, regularly mist the plant to increase humidity and use a strong jet of water to dislodge the mites. If the infestation is severe, apply an insecticidal soap or neem oil as per the package instructions. Mealybugs and scale insects can be managed by using a soft-bristled brush to remove the insects. If the infestation is severe, insecticidal soap or neem oil can be applied.
