Contents
Description
Selaginella Stauntoniana, commonly known as Staunton’s spikemoss, is a species of fern ally in the family Selaginellaceae. It is native to China, specifically in the provinces of Guizhou, Hubei, Hunan, and Sichuan. This evergreen perennial plant has a creeping habit and grows up to 30 cm in height. Selaginella Stauntoniana is a popular plant in indoor gardening due to its unique and attractive appearance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Lycopodiophyta |
| Class | Lycopodiopsida |
| Order | Selaginellales |
| Family | Selaginellaceae |
| Genus | Selaginella |
| Species | Selaginella Stauntoniana |
Appearance
Selaginella Stauntoniana has small, dense, and needle-like leaves that are arranged in a spiral pattern along the stem. The leaves are green in color and have a velvety texture. The stems are thin and wiry, with a reddish-brown color. The plant produces spores that are contained in cone-like structures called strobili, which are located at the tips of the stems. Selaginella Stauntoniana is a slow-growing plant that can reach up to 30 cm in height and 60 cm in width.
Care Guide
Water: Selaginella Stauntoniana prefers to be kept moist, but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water.
Fertilization: Feed Selaginella Stauntoniana with a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix that is rich in organic matter, such as peat moss or compost.
Sunlight: Selaginella Stauntoniana prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid exposing the plant to direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.
Hardiness Zones: Selaginella Stauntoniana is suitable for growing in hardiness zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Selaginella Stauntoniana is susceptible to spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also prone to root rot if overwatered or if the soil does not drain well.
Habitat
Selaginella Stauntoniana is native to the mountainous regions of China, where it grows in moist and shady areas such as forests, cliffs, and stream banks. It can also be found growing on rocks and in crevices.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Selaginella Stauntoniana be grown outdoors?
A: Yes, Selaginella Stauntoniana can be grown outdoors in hardiness zones 8 to 11.
Q: How often should I water Selaginella Stauntoniana?
A: Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Q: How can I control spider mites on Selaginella Stauntoniana?
A: Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control spider mites on Selaginella Stauntoniana.
Q: Can Selaginella Stauntoniana be propagated?
A: Yes, Selaginella Stauntoniana can be propagated through division or by spores.
Related Plants
- Selaginella lepidophylla
- Selaginella kraussiana
- Selaginella uncinata
- Selaginella apoda
References
- Wu, R. Y. (1999). Selaginella Stauntoniana. Flora of China, 2, 10-12.
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Selaginella Stauntoniana. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c940
- Raven, P. H., Evert, R. F., & Eichhorn, S. E. (2005). Biology of plants. Macmillan.
