Watson’s Spikemoss: A Tiny Native Wonder for Western Gardens
If you’ve ever wondered about those delicate, moss-like plants carpeting rocky outcrops in the American West, you might have encountered Watson’s spikemoss (Selaginella watsonii). Don’t let the name fool you – this isn’t actually a moss at all! It’s a fascinating little plant that belongs to an ancient group called spikemosses or clubmosses, making it more closely related to ferns than to true mosses.
What Exactly Is Watson’s Spikemoss?
Watson’s spikemoss is a perennial native plant that’s been quietly thriving in the western United States for millennia. This tiny powerhouse belongs to a group of plants called lycopods, which are some of the oldest vascular plants on Earth. Unlike true mosses, spikemosses have a proper vascular system with tiny roots, stems, and leaves – they’re just really, really small!
The plant gets its common name from its moss-like appearance and scale-like leaves that overlap each other in neat, orderly patterns. It’s like nature’s version of perfectly arranged roof shingles, but in miniature form.
Where You’ll Find This Native Gem
Watson’s spikemoss calls the western United States home, naturally occurring across eight states: Arizona, California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, and Wyoming. It’s particularly fond of the arid and semi-arid regions where it can tuck itself into rocky crevices and sandy soils.
Is Watson’s Spikemoss Beneficial in Gardens?
While Watson’s spikemoss might not be the showiest plant in your garden, it definitely earns its keep in several ways:
- Erosion control: Its low-growing habit and hardy nature make it excellent for stabilizing soil on slopes and in rocky areas
- Unique texture: Adds an interesting textural element that contrasts beautifully with larger plants
- Low maintenance: Once established, it requires virtually no care and is extremely drought tolerant
- Native plant value: Supports local ecosystems and provides habitat for small creatures
- Year-round interest: As a perennial, it provides consistent ground cover through the seasons
Perfect Garden Spots for Watson’s Spikemoss
This little native is ideally suited for:
- Rock gardens where it can weave between stones
- Xeriscapes and drought-tolerant landscapes
- Native plant gardens celebrating regional flora
- Desert-themed landscapes
- Areas with poor, rocky, or sandy soil where other plants struggle
How to Identify Watson’s Spikemoss
Spotting Watson’s spikemoss in the wild (or confirming you have it in your garden) is easier when you know what to look for:
- Size: Very small and low-growing, typically forming mats just a few inches tall
- Leaves: Tiny, scale-like leaves arranged in overlapping patterns along the stems
- Growth pattern: Forms dense, spreading mats or cushions
- Habitat: Usually found in rocky, dry areas with well-draining soil
- Spores: Instead of flowers, look for small cone-like structures that contain spores
Growing Conditions and Care
The beauty of Watson’s spikemoss lies in its simplicity. This hardy native thrives in conditions that would challenge many other plants:
- Soil: Prefers well-draining, rocky, or sandy soils
- Water: Extremely drought tolerant once established; avoid overwatering
- Light: Adaptable to partial shade through full sun
- Hardiness: Generally hardy in USDA zones 4-9, depending on the specific location
- Maintenance: Virtually maintenance-free – just let it do its thing!
A Word About Patience
If you’re lucky enough to have Watson’s spikemoss naturally occurring on your property, consider yourself blessed! This little native may be slow-growing, but it’s incredibly resilient and adds authentic western character to any landscape. While it might not provide the bold colors of annual flowers, it offers something perhaps more valuable – a connection to the ancient plant heritage of the American West and a low-maintenance ground cover that actually belongs in your regional ecosystem.
Remember, the best gardens often include these quiet, understated natives that work behind the scenes to create healthy, sustainable landscapes. Watson’s spikemoss might be small, but it’s definitely mighty!
