Alaska Moonwort

Botrychium alaskense

The Alaskan Moonwort is a perennial species of fern found in alpine tundra primarily in the mountains of south-central Alaska. Growing up to 4 inches tall and having weak stems and sparsely branched short rhizomes, the Alaskan Moonwort features impressive, fan-shaped clusters of foliage that include distinctively round, leathery-textured leaflets often spotted with darker points. The leaflets form an attractive, wavy pattern in flight. With a distinct preference for moist, cool environments, the Alaskan Moonwort is ideally suited to grow in Alaska's seasonal snow and low-sunlight conditions. Its ability to withstand cold temperatures, snow and shade has made it an attractive ornamental to gardeners living in similar climates.