Ground Pine, Groundcedar

Lycopodium complanatum

Physical Characteristics

Lycopodium complanatum is an evergreen Fern growing to 0.1 m (0ft 4in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in full shade (deep woodland) or semi-shade (light woodland). It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Europe to E. Asia and northern N. America.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; not Deep Shade;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Analgesic Miscellany Tonic Urinary A decoction of the plant is analgesic, antirheumatic, carminative, mildly diuretic, stomachic and tonic[4, 218, 238]. It is used internally in the treatment of urinary and kidney disorders, catarrhal cystitis, gastritis etc[238]. It is applied externally to skin diseases and irritations[238]. The plant can be harvested all year round and is used fresh or dried[238]. The spores of this plant are antipruritic, decongestant, diuretic and stomachic[4]. They are applied externally as a dusting powder to various skin diseases, to wounds or inhaled to stop bleeding noses[4, 7]. They can also be used to absorb fluids from injured tissues[213, 218]. The spores are harvested when ripe in late summer[9]. The spores can also be used as a dusting powder to prevent pills sticking together[4, 213]. A homeopathic remedy is made from the spores[232]. It has a wide range of applications including dry coughs, mumps and rheumatic pains[232, 238].

Known Hazards

The plant contains lycopodine, which is poisonous by paralysing the motor nerves[21, 218]. It also contains clavatine which is toxic to many mammals[218]. The spores, however, are not toxic[21].