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Description
Diphasiastrum Thyoides, commonly known as the northern running-pine or ground cedar, is a low-growing evergreen plant that belongs to the Lycopodiaceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in the eastern and central parts of the continent. The plant is typically found growing in moist woods, bogs, and meadows, and can grow up to 15cm tall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Lycopodiophyta |
| Class | Lycopodiopsida |
| Order | Lycopodiales |
| Family | Lycopodiaceae |
| Genus | Diphasiastrum |
Appearance
The northern running-pine has a unique appearance, with a creeping stem that can grow up to 2 meters long. The stem is thin and wiry, and the leaves are arranged in a spiral pattern around the stem. The leaves are small and scale-like, and are a yellow-green color. The plant produces spores in cone-like structures that grow at the tips of the stems. The cones are brown in color and can grow up to 2cm long.
Care Guide
The northern running-pine is a hardy plant that can thrive in a variety of conditions. It prefers moist, well-draining soil, and should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. The plant does not require fertilization, but can benefit from a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring. It prefers partial shade to full shade, and is hardy in USDA zones 3-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
The northern running-pine is generally free from pests and diseases, but can occasionally be affected by fungal diseases such as rust or powdery mildew. These can be treated with a fungicide if necessary. The plant is also susceptible to damage from deer and rabbits, so it may be necessary to protect it with fencing or other barriers.
Habitat
The northern running-pine is native to North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including moist woods, bogs, and meadows. It prefers acidic soil and partial shade, and is often found growing alongside other low-growing plants such as mosses, ferns, and wildflowers.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the northern running-pine an endangered species?
A: No, the northern running-pine is not considered an endangered species at this time.
Q: Can the northern running-pine be grown indoors?
A: While the plant can tolerate low light conditions, it is best grown outdoors in its natural habitat.
Q: How often should the northern running-pine be watered?
A: The plant should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. How often it needs to be watered will depend on the specific growing conditions and climate.
Q: What is the best time of year to plant the northern running-pine?
A: The plant can be planted in the spring or fall, but it is best to avoid planting during the hottest part of the summer.
Related Plants
- Diphasiastrum complanatum
- Diphasiastrum digitatum
- Diphasiastrum tristachyum
- Lycopodium clavatum
- Lycopodium obscurum
References
- “Diphasiastrum thyoides (Northern Running-pine)” – Illinois Wildflowers
- “Diphasiastrum thyoides (L.) Holub” – Plants of the World Online
- “Northern Running-Pine” – USDA Plants Database
