Selaginella

Description

Selaginella, also known as spike moss or resurrection plant, is a genus of non-flowering vascular plants that thrive in moist and shady areas. This plant has more than 700 species that are distributed worldwide, with most of them being native to tropical and subtropical regions. Selaginella has unique characteristics that make it a popular choice for gardeners, such as its delicate foliage, ability to grow in low-light conditions, and resilience to drought and high humidity.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Selaginella plant has unique features that make it an attractive addition to any garden. It has fine-textured foliage that ranges in color from green to gold, with some species having a hint of blue or purple. The leaves of Selaginella are arranged in a spiral pattern and have a needle-like shape that gives the plant a delicate appearance. This plant can grow up to 12 inches in height, and it spreads by stolons that help it form dense mats on the ground.

Care Guide

Proper care is essential for the Selaginella plant to thrive. Below are some tips to keep your Selaginella healthy:

• Water: Selaginella requires consistent moisture to grow well. Water the plant regularly, making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
• Fertilization: Feed your Selaginella with a balanced liquid fertilizer every three to four weeks during the growing season.
• Soil: Selaginella grows best in well-draining, rich soil that is slightly acidic. Use a mix of peat moss, perlite, and sand to create a suitable growing medium for your plant.
• Sunlight: Selaginella prefers to grow in low-light conditions. Place your plant in a spot that receives indirect sunlight or partial shade.
• Hardiness Zones: Selaginella can grow in hardiness zones 6-10.

Common Pests & Diseases

Selaginella is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by some common issues:

• Spider mites: These pests can infest Selaginella and cause yellowing and wilting of the foliage. Treat spider mites with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• Scale insects: These pests can attach themselves to the stems and leaves of Selaginella and cause stunted growth. Use horticultural oil or neem oil to control scale insects.
• Root rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot in Selaginella. Make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid waterlogging the plant.

Habitat

Selaginella is a versatile plant that can adapt to various environments. It is commonly found in moist and shady areas, such as forests, swamps, and riverbanks. Some species of Selaginella can also grow in arid and semi-arid regions, where they can survive long periods of drought by going dormant and then reviving once moisture is available.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Selaginella grow in direct sunlight?

A: Selaginella prefers to grow in low-light conditions and can suffer from sunburn if exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods. Place your plant in a spot that receives indirect sunlight or partial shade.

Q: How often should I fertilize my Selaginella?

A: Feed your Selaginella with a balanced liquid fertilizer every three to four weeks during the growing season. Avoid overfertilizing, as this can damage the plant.

Q: Can I propagate Selaginella?

A: Yes, Selaginella can be propagated by division or stem cuttings. Make sure the cuttings have at least one node and plant them in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and place the cuttings in a shaded area until they start to root.

Q: How often should I water my Selaginella?

A: Selaginella requires consistent moisture to grow well. Water the plant regularly, making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Check the soil moisture level by sticking your finger into the soil up to the second knuckle. If it feels dry, it’s time to water.

Related Plants

• Lycopodium
• Huperzia
• Phlegmariurus
• Diphasiastrum

References

• Flora of North America: Selaginella
• Royal Horticultural Society: Selaginella
• University of Florida: Selaginella
• Missouri Botanical Garden: Selaginella