Ground Pine
Dendrolycopodium obscurum
Last reviewed: July 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
N/A
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 26 more states
Ground pine is a native club moss that forms dense, evergreen colonies resembling miniature conifer forests. This ancient plant spreads by underground rhizomes and maintains its distinctive tree-like appearance year-round. It thrives in partially shaded woodland gardens and naturalized areas.
In an HOA neighborhood
Ground Pine 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.
- Spreads aggressively and can look wild or uncontrolled
- May be mistaken for weeds by those unfamiliar with native plants
- Takes years to establish and can appear sparse initially
Wildlife value
While not a pollinator plant, ground pine provides shelter and nesting material for small woodland creatures. The dense colonies offer cover for ground-dwelling insects and small mammals.
Common questions
- How much sun does Ground Pine need?
- Ground Pine grows best in part shade conditions.
- Where is Ground Pine native?
- Ground Pine (Dendrolycopodium obscurum) is native to AL, AR, CT, DE and 26 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Ground Pine HOA-friendly?
- Ground Pine 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 Ground Pine? 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