Tree Groundpine: The Ancient Wonder That’s Not Actually a Pine
Meet tree groundpine (Lycopodium dendroideum), one of nature’s most fascinating living fossils that’s been quietly carpeting forest floors for millions of years. Despite its common name, this remarkable plant isn’t a pine at all – it’s actually a lycopod, an ancient group of plants that predates even the dinosaurs!
What Exactly Is Tree Groundpine?
Tree groundpine is a perennial lycopod that creates charming miniature forests wherever it grows. Standing just a few inches tall, each plant looks like a tiny evergreen tree complete with branches arranged in neat whorls. These aren’t true branches though – they’re specialized stems covered in small, needle-like leaves that give the plant its distinctive appearance.
Also known by its scientific name Lycopodium dendroideum, this plant has several synonyms including Dendrolycopodium dendroideum. It’s classified as a forb herb, meaning it’s a vascular plant without woody tissue above ground.
Where Does Tree Groundpine Call Home?
This native North American species has one of the most impressive natural ranges you’ll find. Tree groundpine grows naturally across an enormous territory spanning from Alaska down through Canada and into the lower 48 states. You can find it thriving in states and provinces including Alberta, Alaska, British Columbia, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New York, Vermont, Wisconsin, and many others – basically anywhere with the right cool, moist conditions.
Is Tree Groundpine Right for Your Garden?
Here’s where things get interesting – tree groundpine isn’t really a plant you grow in the traditional sense. As a lycopod, it has very specific requirements and doesn’t transplant or establish easily like typical garden plants. However, if you’re lucky enough to have it naturally occurring on your property, it’s absolutely worth protecting and encouraging!
Benefits to Your Garden Ecosystem
- Provides year-round green texture in shaded woodland areas
- Creates habitat for small woodland creatures
- Adds unique visual interest with its miniature tree-like form
- Helps stabilize soil in naturalized areas
- Connects your garden to ancient plant lineages
Identifying Tree Groundpine in the Wild
Spotting tree groundpine is easier once you know what to look for:
- Height: Typically 4-8 inches tall
- Appearance: Looks like tiny evergreen trees growing in colonies
- Leaves: Small, needle-like, arranged in whorls around the stems
- Color: Bright to dark green year-round
- Growth pattern: Often forms spreading patches connected by underground runners
- Habitat: Cool, moist, acidic soil in shaded woodland areas
Growing Conditions and Care
Tree groundpine thrives in specific conditions that mirror its natural woodland habitat:
- Moisture: Prefers consistently moist but well-draining soil
- Soil: Acidic conditions (pH 4.5-6.0)
- Light: Partial to full shade
- Temperature: Hardy in USDA zones 3-7
- Wetland status: Generally grows in non-wetland areas but can tolerate some wetland conditions
If you discover tree groundpine on your property, the best approach is to leave it undisturbed. Avoid walking on it, adding fertilizers, or making major changes to the surrounding environment. These ancient plants prefer stability and minimal interference.
A Living Connection to the Past
Perhaps the most compelling reason to appreciate tree groundpine isn’t about traditional gardening benefits at all. This remarkable plant offers something truly special – a living connection to Earth’s ancient past. When you spot these tiny green trees carpeting a forest floor, you’re looking at descendants of plants that dominated prehistoric landscapes long before flowering plants existed.
While tree groundpine may not offer nectar for pollinators like modern flowering plants, it serves as a unique educational opportunity and adds irreplaceable character to woodland gardens and naturalized areas. If you’re fortunate enough to have this living fossil in your landscape, consider yourself a steward of one of nature’s most enduring success stories.
