Rocky Mountain Spikemoss: A Prehistoric Ground Cover for Modern Gardens
Meet Rocky Mountain spikemoss (Selaginella densa var. scopulorum), a fascinating little plant that’s been around since dinosaurs roamed the earth! This isn’t your typical garden plant – it’s actually a lycopod, which means it’s more closely related to ancient ferns than to the flowering plants we usually think of when planning our landscapes.
What Exactly Is Rocky Mountain Spikemoss?
Don’t let the name fool you – Rocky Mountain spikemoss isn’t actually a moss at all! It’s a primitive vascular plant that belongs to an ancient group called lycopods or clubmosses. These plants have been thriving on Earth for over 400 million years, making them true living fossils in your garden.
This hardy perennial forms dense, cushion-like mats that hug the ground, rarely growing more than a few inches tall. Its tiny, scale-like leaves are arranged in neat spiral patterns along branching stems, creating an intricate, almost prehistoric texture that’s quite unlike anything else you’ll find in the plant world.
Where Does It Come From?
Rocky Mountain spikemoss is native to western North America, naturally occurring across a impressive range that includes Canada (Alberta and British Columbia) and numerous U.S. states: Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Texas, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming. This wide distribution tells us something important – this little plant is incredibly adaptable!
How to Identify Rocky Mountain Spikemoss
Spotting Rocky Mountain spikemoss in the wild or in gardens is easier once you know what to look for:
- Forms dense, carpet-like mats that spread horizontally
- Tiny, needle-like leaves (scales) that overlap like shingles
- Stems branch repeatedly, creating a intricate, fern-like pattern
- Color ranges from bright green in moist conditions to grayish-green or even bronze in dry periods
- No flowers – instead, look for small cone-like structures (strobili) that contain spores
- Typically grows 1-3 inches tall but can spread several feet wide
Is It Beneficial in Gardens?
Absolutely! Rocky Mountain spikemoss can be a fantastic addition to the right garden setting. Here’s why gardeners love it:
Erosion Control Champion: Those dense mats aren’t just for show – they’re excellent at holding soil in place on slopes and preventing erosion. The extensive root system creates a natural stabilizing network.
Drought Tolerance: Once established, this tough little plant can handle serious drought conditions. It actually goes dormant during dry spells, turning bronze or gray, then springs back to green when moisture returns.
Low Maintenance: Rocky Mountain spikemoss thrives on neglect. No fertilizers, minimal watering, and no pruning required – it’s perfect for gardeners who want beauty without the fuss.
Wildlife Value: While small, these dense mats provide important microhabitat for tiny creatures like insects and spiders, which in turn support larger wildlife up the food chain.
Perfect Garden Applications
Rocky Mountain spikemoss shines in specific garden situations:
- Rock Gardens: Its natural affinity for rocky terrain makes it perfect for tucking between boulders and stone features
- Xeriscaping: An ideal choice for water-wise landscapes and drought-tolerant gardens
- Alpine Gardens: Mimics its natural mountain habitat beautifully
- Slope Stabilization: Excellent for preventing erosion on banks and hillsides
- Naturalistic Landscapes: Perfect for creating authentic western or mountain-themed gardens
Growing Conditions and Care
Rocky Mountain spikemoss is surprisingly easy to grow once you understand its preferences:
Sunlight: Prefers full sun to partial shade. In very hot climates, some afternoon shade can be beneficial.
Soil: Thrives in well-draining, rocky, or sandy soils. Avoid heavy clay or constantly moist conditions, which can lead to rot.
Water: Drought-tolerant once established, but appreciates occasional deep watering during extended dry periods.
Climate: Hardy in USDA zones 3-8, making it suitable for most temperate regions.
Planting Tips: Start with small divisions or container plants. Space them about 12 inches apart – they’ll fill in naturally over time. Spring is the best time for planting.
A Living Piece of Natural History
When you plant Rocky Mountain spikemoss, you’re not just adding ground cover to your garden – you’re welcoming a piece of natural history that connects your landscape to the ancient past. This remarkable little plant offers a unique combination of prehistoric charm, ecological benefits, and practical garden solutions.
Whether you’re creating a rock garden, establishing a drought-tolerant landscape, or simply want to try something completely different, Rocky Mountain spikemoss brings both beauty and function to gardens across its native range. Just remember: this isn’t a plant for formal, high-maintenance gardens – it’s for gardeners who appreciate the wild, natural beauty of plants that have stood the test of geological time.
