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Description
Selaginella Cinerascens, commonly known as Blue Spike Moss, is a spikemoss plant that belongs to the family Selaginellaceae. This plant is native to the tropical regions of Southeast Asia, where it grows in moist and shady areas. The plant’s scientific name is derived from the Latin words “selago” and “cinerascens”, which mean “spotted” and “ashen”, respectively, referring to the plant’s spotted and ashen appearance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Lycopodiophyta |
| Class | Selaginellopsida |
| Order | Selaginellales |
| Family | Selaginellaceae |
| Genus | Selaginella |
Appearance
Selaginella Cinerascens is a small plant that grows up to 20 cm in height. It has thin, wiry stems that are covered in small, scale-like leaves that are blue-green in color. The plant has a dense, bushy growth habit, with the leaves arranged in a spiral pattern around the stem. The plant’s spores are produced in cone-like structures that are located at the tips of the stems. These cones are brown in color and can be up to 3 cm in length.
Care Guide
- Water: Selaginella Cinerascens prefers moist soil, so it should be watered regularly. The soil should be kept evenly moist, but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization, but a balanced fertilizer can be applied once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: Selaginella Cinerascens prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers shade or partial shade and should be kept out of direct sunlight.
- Hardiness Zones: Selaginella Cinerascens is hardy in USDA Zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Selaginella Cinerascens is relatively pest and disease resistant, but it can be susceptible to spider mites and mealybugs. Overwatering can also lead to root rot.
Habitat
Selaginella Cinerascens is native to the tropical regions of Southeast Asia, where it grows in moist and shady areas. It can be found growing on the forest floor, on rocks, or on tree trunks.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Selaginella Cinerascens?
A: The plant prefers moist soil, so it should be watered regularly. The soil should be kept evenly moist, but not waterlogged.
Q: What kind of soil does Selaginella Cinerascens prefer?
A: Selaginella Cinerascens prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Q: Can Selaginella Cinerascens be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Selaginella Cinerascens can be grown indoors as long as it is kept in a moist and shady area.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Selaginella Cinerascens?
A: Selaginella Cinerascens is hardy in USDA Zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Selaginella Kraussiana
- Selaginella Uncinata
- Selaginella Martensii
- Selaginella Apoda
References
- Flora of China: Selaginella
- University of Florida IFAS Extension: Blue Spike Moss
- RHS Gardening: Selaginella Cinerascens
