Lycopodiella inundata Marsh Clubmoss

Lycopodiella inundata
©Plantlife

A simple plant related to both ferns and mosses, but looking more like a moss. It forms long leafy prostrate strands that meander along the soil surface, but in the autumn develops vertical ‘spikes’ with tiny, pale brown spore cases at the tips.

It grows on wet heaths, peaty soil, and other places that are under water for much of the winter, preferably with some disturbance from grazing or vehicles.

Although found at several other scattered sites, its principal home is the west side of Britain and Ireland.

It is principally threatened by building development, including the development of mud tracks, the decline of sustainable peat-cutting, overgrazing and pollution, both land and air.

It is classified as Endangered and protected under Schedule 8 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.