Selaginella braunii (winter bronzing)

Arborvitae fern (summer look)

Arborvitae fern (Selaginella braunii) is native to China (USDA hardiness zones 6-9). It is not a fern at all, but a Lycopod or “club moss”, a descendant of ancient spore-producing plants which date back to the Carboniferous and Permian Ages. Its small club shaped cones give it the plant moniker – ”club moss”.

Arborvitae fern is a slowly creeping rhizome with semi-evergreen leathery frond-like leaves. In early spring the tender light green emerges and stays brightly green if seasonal moisture is adequate. During cold winters the foliage is often bronze-tinted.

By the end of its 3 season, a small 3-inch wide plant may fill-in an 18-24 inch wide space. Arborvitae fern grows 6-12 inches (15-30 cm) high. Its textural and seasonal color make for a lovely landscape groundcover in partially to fully shaded areas. It also looks great in hanging baskets and large ground planters combined with other taller plants.

Arborvitae fern loves a moist well-drained, organically rich soil and in full to part shade. Amend a sandy or clay soil by generously incorporating a two- or three-inch layer of compost or humus. Plant quart or gallon-sized containers a foot or so apart. Water as needed to maintain moist soil. Once established, give it 1-2 years, it will tolerate moderately dry sites over short periods. Fertilize in early spring just as new growth begins with a slow-release fertilizer at low rates.

Arborvitae ferns are easy to grow, disease and insect resistant and deer proof. These and other club mosses can be easily divided at any time of year. They do not flower in the traditional sense, but you can nurture them from spores.