Branched Moonwort
Botrychium matricariifolium
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
2"–8" H × 1"–4" W
Bloom
N/A
Native to
CT, DE, IA, IL and 22 more states
Daisy-leaved moonwort is a tiny native fern with delicate, divided fronds that emerge in spring. This miniature species grows close to the ground and goes dormant by midsummer, disappearing completely until the following year.
In an HOA neighborhood
Branched Moonwort takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Extremely small size makes it nearly invisible
- Disappears completely for most of the year
- Looks like weedy growth to untrained eyes
Wildlife value
As a fern, it does not support pollinators but provides habitat for small soil organisms and contributes to native ecosystem diversity.
Common questions
- How much sun does Branched Moonwort need?
- Branched Moonwort grows best in part shade conditions.
- Where is Branched Moonwort native?
- Branched Moonwort (Botrychium matricariifolium) is native to CT, DE, IA, IL and 22 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Branched Moonwort HOA-friendly?
- Branched Moonwort takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Branched Moonwort? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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