One-cone Clubmoss
Lycopodium lagopus
Last reviewed: July 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
2"–8" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
N/A
Native to
CT, IL, MA, ME and 11 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
One-cone clubmoss is a low-growing evergreen ground cover that forms dense mats of fine, needle-like foliage. This ancient plant creates a soft, moss-like carpet that stays green year-round and thrives in partial shade with consistent moisture.
In an HOA neighborhood
One-cone 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 wild and unstructured
- May be mistaken for moss or weeds
- Very low profile can look unkempt
Wildlife value
As a primitive plant that reproduces by spores rather than flowers, it provides minimal direct value to pollinators but offers shelter and foraging habitat for small insects and invertebrates.
Common questions
- How much sun does One-cone Clubmoss need?
- One-cone Clubmoss grows best in part shade conditions.
- Where is One-cone Clubmoss native?
- One-cone Clubmoss (Lycopodium lagopus) is native to CT, IL, MA, ME and 11 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is One-cone Clubmoss HOA-friendly?
- One-cone 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 One-cone 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