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Appalachian clubmoss
Scientific Name: Huperzia appalachiana
Family: Lycopodiaceae
Category: Lycopod
Growth: Forb/herb, Subshrub
Duration: Perennial
Other Names: ME (Appalachian fir-clubmoss), NY (Appalachian fir
Appalachian Clubmoss: A Botanical Overview
This article explores the fascinating world of Appalachian Clubmoss, a unique plant with a rich history and intriguing characteristics.
Scientific and Common Names
- Scientific Name: Huperzia appalachiana Beitel & Mickel
- Synonyms: Huperzia appressa
- Common Names: Appalachian Clubmoss, Appalachian Firmoss, Appalachian Fir-clubmoss, Mountain Firmoss, Mountain Fir-clubmoss
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Family: Lycopodiaceae (Club-Moss Family) or Huperziaceae
- Taxonomic Rank: Species
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to the eastern half of North America.
- Specifically found in the higher Appalachian Mountains.
- Observed at locations such as Craggy Dome along the Blue Ridge Parkway and Grandfather Mountain State Park in North Carolina (endangered here).
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Evergreen perennial.
- Characterized by evergreen upright shoots and dichotomous branching.
- Adapted to acidic soil.
Ecological Role
- Hybrids with other closely related species are relatively common in certain parts of its range.
Quirky Facts
- Club mosses are ancient plants whose early ancestors date back long before the dinosaurs.
Further Information
- Endangered Resources Program for identification information, photos, and links.
- Wisconsin State Herbarium for photos.