Common Moonwort
Botrychium lunaria
Last reviewed: June 2026
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Common Moonwort as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
2"–8" H × 2"–6" W
Bloom
N/A
Native to
WY
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Common moonwort is a tiny, delicate native fern with distinctive crescent-shaped leaflets that give it its name. This diminutive plant emerges in spring and disappears by midsummer, making it ephemeral and easily overlooked in the landscape.
In an HOA neighborhood
Common 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 by midsummer
- May appear as missing plants or weeds to neighbors
Wildlife value
As a fern, it does not attract pollinators but provides habitat for small insects and adds to native plant diversity. Its small size limits its overall wildlife impact.
Common questions
- How much sun does Common Moonwort need?
- Common Moonwort grows best in full sun conditions.
- Where is Common Moonwort native?
- Common Moonwort (Botrychium lunaria) is native to WY, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Common Moonwort toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Common Moonwort as toxic to livestock.
- Is Common Moonwort HOA-friendly?
- Common 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 Common Moonwort? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz