This genus is distinguished from other Clubmosses  in our area by four characteristics: there are no strobili (cones that bear spores), they have no true elongated horizontal stems, sporophylls are found in distinct zones on the evergreen, upright stems; and gemmae are produced in the upper portion of mature stems.  Gemmae mature mid to late summer and fall off by the end of the season. They are then carried by wind or water to new sites, and develop roots and grow into new individuals.