Stiff Clubmoss
Lycopodium annotinum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
4"–12" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
N/A
Native to
AZ, CO, CT, ID and 24 more states
Stiff clubmoss is a low-growing evergreen that forms small, dense mats with upright branching stems covered in tiny needle-like leaves. This ancient plant reproduces by spores rather than flowers and creates a soft, moss-like ground cover. It naturally grows in cool, moist forest environments and maintains its green color year-round.
In an HOA neighborhood
Stiff 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.
- Unusual moss-like appearance may be unfamiliar to HOAs
- Very informal growth habit lacks traditional landscaping structure
- Spore structures can look odd or unkempt to conventional tastes
Wildlife value
This plant provides minimal direct wildlife value as it does not produce flowers for pollinators. It may offer some shelter for very small ground-dwelling insects and contributes to soil stability.
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 Stiff Clubmoss fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.