Foxtail Clubmoss
Lycopodiella alopecuroides
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
4"–12" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
N/A
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 17 more states
Foxtail clubmoss is a unique evergreen ground cover that forms dense, moss-like mats with distinctive upright fertile stems resembling tiny foxtails. This ancient plant thrives in partially shaded, consistently moist areas and adds textural interest to woodland gardens. It spreads slowly by underground stems to create a soft, carpet-like effect.
In an HOA neighborhood
Foxtail Clubmoss takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Very unusual appearance may seem weedy to untrained eyes
- Primitive plant form looks unlike typical landscaping
- Requires consistently wet conditions that may appear unkempt
Wildlife value
As a primitive plant that reproduces by spores rather than flowers, foxtail clubmoss does not attract pollinators but provides shelter and nesting material for small ground-dwelling creatures.
Common questions
- How much sun does Foxtail Clubmoss need?
- Foxtail Clubmoss grows best in part shade conditions.
- Where is Foxtail Clubmoss native?
- Foxtail Clubmoss (Lycopodiella alopecuroides) is native to AL, AR, CT, DE and 17 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Foxtail Clubmoss HOA-friendly?
- Foxtail Clubmoss 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 Foxtail Clubmoss? 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