Lycopodium clavatum
Stag's-horn Clubmoss
Species Details
Stag’s-horn Clubmoss is a very rare native perennial of heaths and woodland rides. It occurs scattered through northern and western parts of Derbyshire. Linton's 1903 Flora refers to the plant growing on "moors and heaths" where, indeed, it still occurs {Ladybower SK2086; Cutthroat Bridge layby SK2187; Cobnar Wood SK3574}. Until recently it has also been particularly characteristic of silica sand pits in the White Peak {Kenslow Pits SK1861 and Bees Nest Pits SK2354}. However, it is vulnerable to reworking of the pits, is sensitive to management changes, and has suffered a severe decline at many locations since the early 1990s. Two important sites for three clubmoss species have been lost in recent years, whilst others are now scrubbing-up or being over-grazed. (pers. comm. Peak National Park, 2003; T Taylor 2005)
This plant is in Category 5b of the local Red Data List, 2009.