Herb latin name: Lycopodium campanulatum


Family: Lycopodiaceae (Club-moss Family)



Medicinal use of Lycopodium campanulatum:

The plant is hypnotic. Chewing three stems is said to induce mild intoxication whilst eight can cause unconsciousness.

Description of the plant:



Plant:
Fern

Habitat of the herb:

Moist coniferous woods, lowland to moderate elevations in mountains.

Other uses of Lycopodium campanulatum:

The spores are water repellent and can be used as a dusting powder to stop things sticking together. They are also used as a talcum powder and for dressing moulds in iron foundries. They can also be used as explosives in fireworks and for artificial lightning. The plant can be used as a mordant in dyeing.

Propagation of the herb:

Spores - best sown as soon as they are ripe on the surface of a humus-rich sterilized soil. Keep the compost moist, preferably by putting a plastic bag over the pot. Pot on small clumps of plantlets as soon as they are large enough to handle and keep humid until they are well established. Do not plant outside until the ferns are at least 2 years old and then only in a very well sheltered position. The spores are generally produced in abundance but are difficult to grow successfully. Layering of growing tips.

Cultivation of Lycopodium campanulatum:

Moist coniferous woods, lowland to moderate elevations in mountains.

Known hazards of Lycopodium campanulatum:

Although no records of toxicity have been seen for this species, a number of other members of this genus are said to be toxic and so some caution is advised.

Plant information taken from the Plants For A Future.