Diphasiastrum digitatum
Diphasiastrum digitatum · Lycopodiaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant diphasiastrum digitatum: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Evergreen, finely divided and bright green
- Plant type
- Lycopod (false fern), primitive flowering-less plant
- Adult size
- 10 to 20 cm in height, spreading and branched habit
- Growth
- Slow
- Hardiness
- Very hardy, withstands down to -20 °C
- Origin
- Temperate regions of the northern hemisphere
- Exposure
- Shade to partial shade, dislikes direct sun
- Soil type
- Rich in humus, acidic to neutral, well-draining
Care
Watering
Keep the substrate moist without waterlogging. Water regularly during the growing season, especially in summer. In winter, reduce watering. Prefer non-calcareous water and misting to recreate its natural woodland habitat.
Exposure
Place this plant in shade or partial shade, ideally under tree cover or near a window without direct sun. Intense sun dries out and discolors the foliage. Indoors, choose a cool, bright spot away from direct rays.
Soil and substrate
Use a mixture rich in organic matter: leaf mold, peat or sphagnum, perlite for drainage. A slightly acidic pH is preferred. The soil should remain aerated and never compact, close to natural woodland conditions.
Fertilizer
This primitive plant is undemanding. A moderate dose of diluted fertilizer in spring is enough. Prefer a balanced or nitrogen-dominant fertilizer. Excess fertilizer can promote disease; let nature take its course as much as possible.
Pruning and maintenance
No pruning is necessary. Simply remove dead or declining parts. Respect its natural spreading habit. Indoors, good air circulation prevents problems.
Pests and diseases
Generally robust, this plant fears excess moisture which can cause rot. Avoid waterlogging and ensure good ventilation. Little susceptible to pests; inspect regularly to catch any problems early.
Did you know?
Diphasiastrum digitatum is a lycopod, a group of plants among the oldest on Earth, existing for over 400 million years. These primitive plants reproduce by spores, not seeds, making them far older than ferns. In Europe, these living creatures from the past are sometimes called 'green currents' and symbolize prehistoric life in shaded gardens.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
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- Diphasiastrum complanatumDiphasiastrum complanatum
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.