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Hickey'S Clubmoss

Dendrolycopodium hickeyi

Last reviewed: June 2026

Hickey'S Clubmoss (Dendrolycopodium hickeyi)
Photo: Matt Berger / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 4.0)

Light

part shade

Water

medium

Size

4"–12" H × 4"–12" W

Bloom

N/A

Native to

MN

Hickey's tree clubmoss is a small evergreen plant that forms low, spreading mats with delicate, feathery foliage. This species thrives in partially shaded areas with consistent moisture, making it an excellent groundcover for woodland gardens.

In an HOA neighborhood

Hickey'S 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.

  • Very unconventional appearance may be unfamiliar to HOAs
  • Low growing habit can appear unmanicured
  • Primitive plant form doesn't fit typical landscaping expectations

Wildlife value

This plant provides winter shelter and habitat for small woodland creatures and insects. As a primitive plant that doesn't produce flowers, it doesn't attract pollinators but supports the broader forest ecosystem.

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 Hickey'S Clubmoss fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.