Contents
Description
Selaginella Peruviana, commonly known as Peruvian Spikemoss, is a perennial evergreen plant belonging to the family Selaginellaceae. Native to South America, it is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant because of its unique appearance and low maintenance requirements.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Lycopodiophyta |
| Class | Lycopodiopsida |
| Order | Selaginellales |
| Family | Selaginellaceae |
| Genus | Selaginella |
Appearance
Selaginella Peruviana has a dense, creeping habit and grows up to 10 cm in height. Its leaves are arranged in a spiral pattern and are bright green in color. The stems are thin and wiry, and the plant has a delicate, fern-like appearance.
Care Guide
Selaginella Peruviana is a low maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you take care of your Peruvian Spikemoss:
Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top 1-2 inches of soil feels dry to the touch.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
Soil: Use a well-draining soil mixture that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: Selaginella Peruviana prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.
Hardiness Zones: Selaginella Peruviana is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Selaginella Peruviana is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and mealybugs. To prevent these pests, keep the plant in a humid environment and mist it regularly. If you notice any signs of infestation, treat the plant with an appropriate insecticide.
Habitat
Selaginella Peruviana is native to the Andes Mountains in South America, where it grows in moist, shaded areas. It can also be found in tropical and subtropical regions, where it is often cultivated as an ornamental plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Selaginella Peruviana be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Selaginella Peruviana can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with bright, indirect light and a humid environment.
Q: How often should I fertilize Selaginella Peruviana?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
Q: Is Selaginella Peruviana a good ground cover?
A: Yes, Selaginella Peruviana is a good ground cover because of its dense, creeping habit and low maintenance requirements.
Q: Can Selaginella Peruviana be propagated?
A: Yes, Selaginella Peruviana can be propagated by division or spores.
Related Plants
- Selaginella Uncinata
- Selaginella Kraussiana
- Selaginella Apoda
- Selaginella Lepidophylla
References
- “Selaginella Peruviana.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b584
- “Selaginella Peruviana.” Plants of the World Online, www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:167813-2
- “Selaginella Peruviana.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/9225/Selaginella-peruviana/Details
