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Description
Selaginella Convoluta, commonly known as the “Japanese spikemoss,” is a species of fern that belongs to the Selaginellaceae family. It is native to Japan, Korea, and China and has become a popular plant for indoor and outdoor decoration due to its unique appearance and easy-to-care-for nature. It is a small, creeping plant that grows up to 6 inches in height and can spread up to 1 foot wide.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Lycopodiophyta |
| Class | Lycopodiopsida |
| Order | Selaginellales |
| Family | Selaginellaceae |
| Genus | Selaginella |
| Species | Convoluta |
Appearance
Selaginella Convoluta has a unique appearance that sets it apart from other ferns. It has small, scale-like leaves that form a dense mat of foliage. The leaves are a bright green color and have a velvety texture. The plant produces spores that are located on the underside of the leaves, which can give the plant a slightly fuzzy appearance. Overall, Selaginella Convoluta has a delicate and intricate look, making it a great choice for adding texture and interest to a garden or terrarium.
Care Guide
Selaginella Convoluta is an easy-to-care-for plant that can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips for keeping your plant healthy:Water: Selaginella Convoluta prefers moist soil, but it is important not to overwater the plant. Allow the top layer of soil to dry out slightly before watering thoroughly.Fertilization: Fertilize Selaginella Convoluta once a month during the growing season with a balanced, liquid fertilizer.Soil: Selaginella Convoluta prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of peat moss and perlite or sand can work well.Sunlight: Selaginella Convoluta prefers bright, indirect sunlight. It can also tolerate some shade.Hardiness Zones: Selaginella Convoluta is hardy in zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Selaginella Convoluta is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can still be affected by a few common issues. Here are some to watch out for:Spider Mites: Spider mites can infest Selaginella Convoluta and cause stunted growth and discoloration. Use an insecticidal soap to treat the plant.Mealybugs: Mealybugs can also infest Selaginella Convoluta and cause damage to the foliage. Use an insecticidal soap to treat the plant.
Habitat
Selaginella Convoluta is native to Japan, Korea, and China and can be found growing in shaded areas, such as forests and rocky areas. It prefers moist soil and can tolerate a range of temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Selaginella Convoluta be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Selaginella Convoluta is an excellent plant for indoor growing and can be grown in a terrarium or as a houseplant.Q: Does Selaginella Convoluta require a lot of sunlight?
A: No, Selaginella Convoluta prefers bright, indirect sunlight, but it can also tolerate some shade.Q: How often should I water Selaginella Convoluta?
A: Selaginella Convoluta prefers moist soil, but it is important not to overwater the plant. Allow the top layer of soil to dry out slightly before watering thoroughly.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Selaginella Convoluta?
A: Selaginella Convoluta is hardy in zones 7-10.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Selaginella Convoluta:- Selaginella Kraussiana- Selaginella Martensii- Selaginella Uncinata- Selaginella Apoda
References
– “Selaginella Convoluta.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=276327&isprofile=1&basic=sela%20convoluta.- “Japanese Spikemoss.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/japanese-spikemoss-care-4783643.- “Selaginella Convoluta.” Plant Care Today, plantcaretoday.com/selaginella-convoluta.
