Lesser Clubmoss Toxic?

Updated 2026-03-06| 5 min read| 3,709 found this helpful

No documented toxicity of Selaginella helvetica has been found in available scientific literature.

The plant is not suitable or recommended for use as feed for any livestock or companion animals.

Exercise caution to avoid confusing this species with other potentially toxic Selaginella varieties.

FAQ

Is Lesser Clubmoss toxic to Humans?

No confirmed toxicity symptoms reported; monitor for mild gastrointestinal upset if large volumes are ingested as a precaution. (Non-toxic)

Is Lesser Clubmoss toxic to Cats?

No confirmed toxicity symptoms reported; monitor for mild vomiting or diarrhea if large volumes are ingested as a precaution. (Non-toxic)

Is Lesser Clubmoss toxic to Dogs?

No confirmed toxicity symptoms reported; monitor for mild vomiting or diarrhea if large volumes are ingested as a precaution. (Non-toxic)

Is Lesser Clubmoss toxic to Horses?

No confirmed toxicity symptoms reported; monitor for mild digestive discomfort if large volumes are ingested as a precaution. (Non-toxic)

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Toxicity Details

Humans

Non-toxic

No confirmed toxicity symptoms reported; monitor for mild gastrointestinal upset if large volumes are ingested as a precaution.

Cats

Non-toxic

No confirmed toxicity symptoms reported; monitor for mild vomiting or diarrhea if large volumes are ingested as a precaution.

Dogs

Non-toxic

No confirmed toxicity symptoms reported; monitor for mild vomiting or diarrhea if large volumes are ingested as a precaution.

Horses

Non-toxic

No confirmed toxicity symptoms reported; monitor for mild digestive discomfort if large volumes are ingested as a precaution.

Toxicity Snapshot

Toxic PartsNo toxic parts identified in published research; all plant parts are presumed safe in small quantities, though consumption as feed is not advised.

Exposure RouteIngestion is the only confirmed exposure route; no dermal or inhalation toxicity risks are reported.

Toxic CompoundsNo toxic chemical constituents specific to this species have been documented in scientific literature to date

First Aid & Prevention

First 30 Minutes

• If ingested in large quantities, rinse the exposed individual's mouth with clean, cool water.
• Monitor for signs of mild gastrointestinal discomfort for 2-4 hours post-ingestion.
• Remove any remaining plant material from the reach of children and animals to prevent further consumption.

Contact Vet Immediately

• Persistent gastrointestinal symptoms (vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy) lasting more than 4 hours post-ingestion.
• Ingestion of very large quantities of the plant by very small companion animals.
• Unusual neurological or physical symptoms observed shortly after exposure.

Prevention

• Do not harvest or offer this plant as feed for livestock, companion animals, or small pets.
• Clearly label Selaginella specimens grown as houseplants to avoid confusion with toxic related species.
• Keep ornamental spikemoss plants out of the reach of unsupervised young children and pets.

Treatment & Prognosis

• Provide supportive care for gastrointestinal symptoms if they develop, including fluid administration and anti-emetics as prescribed.
• No specific antidote is required as no toxic effects have been documented for this species.

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Professional Toxicology

Scientific NameSelaginella helvetica (L.) Spring

AliasesLycopodium helveticum L.、Swiss Spikemoss、Swiss Selaginella

Toxicity Grade

HumansNon-toxic

CatsNon-toxic

DogsNon-toxic

HorsesNon-toxic

Target Organs

Mechanism of Action

• No toxic mechanisms of action have been identified for this species as no toxicity has been documented

Other Species Risk (CliniTox)

Information from CliniTox veterinary text.

General livestock (cattle, sheep, goats): No toxicity reported, but consumption as a feed source is not recommended.

Small exotic pets (rabbits, guinea pigs, reptiles): No known adverse effects, but regular feeding is not advised due to limited safety data.

Confusion Risk

The following plants look similar and may be confused:

Other Selaginella species Selaginella spp.

Many Selaginella varieties are visually similar; some related species have documented mild to moderate toxicity, so positive species identification is required before assuming safety.

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Related Toxic Plants

Common Clubmoss

Lycopodium clavatum

Moderate toxicity

Tamarisk Spikemoss

Selaginella tamariscina

Low toxicity

Foxtail Clubmoss

Lycopodiella alopecuroides

Low to moderate toxicity

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Data Sources

1. CliniTox (Universität Zürich)

This information is for reference only and does not constitute medical advice. If ingestion or poisoning is suspected, seek medical or veterinary attention immediately.