Fir Clubmoss

Lycopodium selago

Physical Characteristics

Lycopodium selago is a FERN growing to 0.3 m (1ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 2. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor 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

Arctic and N. temperate zone, including Britain, south to Spain, the Himalayas and Oregon.

Habitats

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

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Edible Uses: The plant is edible[161, 177]. Caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity.

Medicinal Uses

Analgesic Emetic Homeopathy Hypnotic Purgative The plant is hypnotic[192]. Chewing three stems is said to induce mild intoxication whilst eight can cause unconsciousness[192, 213]. The plant has been used as a fast-acting emetic and purgative[257]. A poultice of the whole plant has been applied to the head in the treatment of headaches[257]. A homeopathic remedy is made from the whole plant, collected during the summer[9]. It is used as a laxative and to kill worms[9].

Known Hazards

The plant is an active narcotic poison[172, 192].