Hickey'S Clubmoss
Dendrolycopodium hickeyi
Last reviewed: July 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
4"–12" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
N/A
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 23 more states
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.
Common questions
- How much sun does Hickey'S Clubmoss need?
- Hickey'S Clubmoss grows best in part shade conditions.
- Where is Hickey'S Clubmoss native?
- Hickey'S Clubmoss (Dendrolycopodium hickeyi) is native to AL, AR, CT, DE and 23 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Hickey'S Clubmoss HOA-friendly?
- Hickey'S 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 Hickey'S 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