Species Mountain Moonwort
lime leaves, stems and green-yellow fruits

Mountain Moonwort

Botrychium montanum

Also Known As - Mountain Grape,Western Goblin
Mountain Moonwort (Botrychium montanum) is a fern-like plant found in high elevations of the Northern Hemisphere. Its wiry stems, bearing tiny-divided leaves, grow up to 20 cm in height. These slender pale yellow-green stems bend upwards and form an elegant fan-like shape. Its rare bell-like fruit contains black seeds, and the plant prefers damp soil and shady areas among rocks and grass. Its scientific name references the mountainous regions it grows in, and its common name derives from the crescent-shaped moon-like markings found on the underside of its leaves.

Watering:

Average

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

part shade,full sun

Growth Rate:

Low

watering

Michigan Moonwort (Botrychium michiganense) should be watered once a week in the spring and summer months, and every 2 to 4 weeks during the fall and winter. Water deeply, focusing the stream directly at the soil and saturating it thoroughly. Avoid wetting the leaves and foliage whenever possible. Make sure to water the entire root zone, as the Michigan Moonwort has a deep root system. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings, as this plant does not tolerate wet feet or standing water.

sunlight

Michigan Moonwort (Botrychium michiganense) is a dark green fern-like plant that prefers partial shade to full sun. It grows best with approximately 4 to 6 hours of sunlight per day. However, during the summer months when the sun is stronger and the temperatures are higher, Michigan Moonwort benefits from having some shade during the noon-time and early afternoon hours. Michigan Moonwort does not require supplemental lighting, but for best results during the winter and early spring months, it should be moved to an area with more direct the sun exposure.

pruning

Michigan Moonwort (Botrychium michiganense) should be pruned in order to maintain a neat, balanced appearance and prevent overcrowding. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. Prune only selectively and no more than 1-third of the plant's foliage at any 1 time. Be sure to make clean cuts just above a set of leaves or growing node so that the plant can heal quickly. Removal of all flower scapes should be avoided as this can leave a disheveled look to the plant.

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