Contents
Description
Austrolycopodium Fastigiatum, commonly known as the alpine clubmoss, is a fascinating plant species that belongs to the Lycopodiaceae family. This plant is native to the southern hemisphere, particularly in Australia and New Zealand. Austrolycopodium Fastigiatum is a perennial evergreen plant that grows up to 10 cm in height. It has a creeping habit, with branches that form dense cushions or mats. The leaves are small, scale-like, and arranged in a spiral pattern around the stem.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Lycopodiophyta |
| Class | Lycopodiopsida |
| Order | Lycopodiales |
| Family | Lycopodiaceae |
| Genus | Austrolycopodium |
Appearance
Austrolycopodium Fastigiatum is a small, cushion-forming plant that has a unique appearance. It has branched stems that are covered with small, scale-like leaves that resemble pine needles. The stems are usually reddish-brown or green, with a slightly hairy texture. In the spring and summer, Austrolycopodium Fastigiatum produces small, conelike structures that contain spores. These cones are about 1 cm in height and are reddish-brown in color.
Care Guide
Austrolycopodium Fastigiatum is a relatively low-maintenance plant that thrives in well-draining soil and cool temperatures. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:- Water: Austrolycopodium Fastigiatum prefers moist soil but should not be overwatered. Water the plant deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.- Fertilization: This plant does not require fertilization.- Soil: Use well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Avoid soil that is heavy or compacted.- Sunlight: Austrolycopodium Fastigiatum prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.- Hardiness Zones: This plant grows well in hardiness zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Austrolycopodium Fastigiatum is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be prone to fungal infections if the soil is too wet or if the plant is overwatered. Keep the soil moist but not soggy, and ensure that the plant has good air circulation to prevent fungal growth.
Habitat
Austrolycopodium Fastigiatum is native to the southern hemisphere, particularly in Australia and New Zealand. It is found in alpine and subalpine regions, often growing in rocky areas or on cliffs.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Austrolycopodium Fastigiatum be grown indoors?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown indoors in a cool, humid environment with filtered sunlight.
Q: How often should I water Austrolycopodium Fastigiatum?
A: Water the plant deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Q: Does this plant require fertilizer?
A: No, Austrolycopodium Fastigiatum does not require fertilizer.
Q: What is the ideal temperature range for this plant?
A: Austrolycopodium Fastigiatum prefers cool temperatures and grows well in hardiness zones 3-9.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants in the Lycopodiaceae family:- Lycopodium clavatum- Lycopodium obscurum- Huperzia selago- Diphasiastrum digitatum
References
– “Austrolycopodium fastigiatum.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed on August 25, 2021. – “Austrolycopodium fastigiatum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed on August 25, 2021. – “Alpine Clubmoss (Austrolycopodium fastigiatum).” New Zealand Plant Conservation Network. Accessed on August 25, 2021.
