Western Moonwort: The Mysterious Native Fern You Probably Shouldn’t Try to Grow
Have you ever stumbled across a tiny, peculiar-looking fern that seems almost otherworldly? If you were hiking in the mountains of western North America, you might have encountered the western moonwort (Botrychium hesperium), one of nature’s most enigmatic native ferns. This little green mystery has captivated botanists and confused gardeners for decades.
What Exactly Is Western Moonwort?
Western moonwort is a small perennial fern that belongs to a unique group called grape ferns or moonworts. Unlike the lacy, feathery ferns you might know from your garden center, western moonwort has a completely different look. It produces a single leaf (called a frond) that’s divided into small segments, plus a separate fertile spike that looks remarkably like a tiny cluster of grapes – hence the grape fern nickname.
This native North American species goes by the botanical name Botrychium hesperium, and it has quite a few scientific synonyms that reflect just how much botanists have debated its classification over the years.
Where Does Western Moonwort Call Home?
Western moonwort is truly a child of western North America. You’ll find this native species scattered across an impressive range of states and provinces, including Alberta, British Columbia, Ontario, Saskatchewan, Arizona, Colorado, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming.
The plant’s wetland status varies depending on the region – it’s considered a facultative upland species in most western areas (meaning it usually prefers drier spots but can tolerate some moisture), while in the northcentral and northeastern regions, it’s classified as obligate upland (almost never found in wet areas).
Should You Try Growing Western Moonwort in Your Garden?
Here’s where things get interesting – and a bit disappointing for eager gardeners. Western moonwort is notoriously difficult to cultivate, and here’s why you probably shouldn’t attempt it:
- It requires very specific soil fungi (mycorrhizal partners) to survive
- The growing conditions are extremely particular and hard to replicate
- It’s naturally rare and slow-growing
- Even experienced fern growers rarely succeed with moonworts
Western moonwort thrives in cool, mountainous environments with well-draining soils and specific underground fungal networks that are nearly impossible to recreate in a home garden setting.
What Role Does It Play in Nature?
While western moonwort won’t attract pollinators (ferns don’t produce flowers), it does play a role in its native ecosystems. These small ferns contribute to the understory plant community and likely provide habitat for tiny soil organisms. However, their ecological impact is subtle rather than showy.
How to Identify Western Moonwort
If you’re out hiking and want to spot this elusive native, here’s what to look for:
- Small size – usually just a few inches tall
- Single, divided leaf emerging from the ground
- Separate fertile spike with grape-like clusters of sporangia
- Grows in mountainous or northern regions
- Often found in clearings or along trails in forested areas
The Bottom Line for Gardeners
Western moonwort is one of those fascinating native plants that’s best appreciated in the wild rather than attempted in cultivation. If you’re lucky enough to spot one during your outdoor adventures, take a moment to marvel at this botanical oddity – but leave it where it belongs.
For gardeners interested in native ferns that are actually growable, consider alternatives like lady fern, bracken fern, or wood fern species that are native to your specific region. These options will give you that native plant satisfaction without the heartbreak of trying to grow one of nature’s most temperamental species.
Sometimes the best way to garden with native plants is to simply appreciate them where they naturally thrive – and western moonwort is definitely one of those look but don’t transplant treasures of the western wilderness.
