Fan Clubmoss
Diphasiastrum digitatum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
6"–24" H × 12"–36" W
Bloom
N/A
Native to
MN
This low-growing, evergreen clubmoss forms dense mats of feathery, fan-like foliage. It spreads slowly by underground stems and maintains its green color year-round. It thrives in partially shaded areas with consistent moisture and well-draining soil.
In an HOA neighborhood
Fan Clubmoss 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.
- Appears too wild and informal for typical HOA standards
- Low growth habit may be perceived as groundcover weeds
- Uncommon plant that HOAs may not recognize as intentional landscaping
Wildlife value
This plant provides shelter and nesting material for small wildlife and ground-dwelling creatures. While it doesn't produce flowers or nectar, its dense evergreen foliage offers year-round cover for beneficial insects and small animals.
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.
Does Fan Clubmoss fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.