Contents
Description
Selaginella Involvens, commonly known as the “creeping selaginella,” is a species of spikemoss that belongs to the Selaginellaceae family. This evergreen plant is native to tropical regions of Africa and Asia and is widely used as an ornamental plant in gardens and indoor spaces.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Lycopodiophyta |
| Class | Selaginellopsida |
| Order | Selaginellales |
| Family | Selaginellaceae |
| Genus | Selaginella |
Appearance
Selaginella Involvens has a creeping habit and can grow up to 30 centimeters in length. Its stem is thin and wiry, with small, scale-like leaves that are arranged in a spiral pattern. The leaves are dark green and have a velvety texture. The plant also produces spores that are located in cone-like structures at the tips of its branches.
Care Guide
Water: Selaginella Involvens prefers moist soil and should be watered regularly. However, it is important not to overwater the plant, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Soil: Selaginella Involvens prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil mix that contains peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite works well.
Sunlight: This plant prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight, as this can scorch its leaves.
Hardiness Zones: Selaginella Involvens is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Selaginella Involvens is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to spider mites and mealybugs. These can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Selaginella Involvens is native to tropical regions of Africa and Asia, where it grows in moist, shaded areas such as forests and along streambanks.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Selaginella Involvens be grown indoors?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with bright, indirect light and kept in a humid environment.
Q: Is Selaginella Involvens a good groundcover?
A: Yes, this plant is an excellent groundcover and can be used to fill in gaps between other plants.
Q: Does Selaginella Involvens require pruning?
A: No, this plant does not require regular pruning. However, it can be trimmed back if it becomes too leggy or starts to lose its shape.
Q: Can Selaginella Involvens be propagated?
A: Yes, this plant can be propagated through stem cuttings or by dividing its rhizomes.
Related Plants
- Selaginella kraussiana
- Selaginella uncinata
- Selaginella lepidophylla
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/selaginella/selaginella-plant.htm
- https://www.thespruce.com/selaginella-involvens-1902772
- https://www.gardeningchannel.com/selaginella-plants-growing-care/
- https://www.houseplantsexpert.com/selaginella-involvens.html
