How to Grow Spikemoss
iNaturalist
Spikemoss
Selaginella species
herbSelaginella species are ancient, non-flowering plants closely related to ferns that thrive in moist, shaded environments. These delicate, moss-like plants feature fine, scale-like leaves arranged in feathery fronds and are prized as ornamental houseplants and terrarium specimens. They are among the most primitive vascular plants and have remained virtually unchanged for over 300 million years.
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Example Spikemoss timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Spikemoss
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Spikemoss
Around Jul 16≈ 90 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Spikemoss dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Zones 10-11 outdoors; excellent as indoor houseplants in all zones
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Establishment
3-4 weeksNew spikes are developing and beginning to unfurl; plant appears compact
Maintain high humidity with daily misting; keep soil moist; avoid direct sun; ensure good air circulation to prevent rot
Vegetative Growth
8-12 weeksFronds extend and multiply; the plant develops its characteristic feathery appearance with new shoots emerging regularly
Maintain consistent moisture and humidity; mist 1-2 times daily; ensure bright indirect light; fertilize lightly with diluted liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks
Mature Growth
OngoingPlant reaches full size with dense, lush fronds; may develop trailing or spreading habit depending on species
Continue regular misting and watering; rotate pot occasionally for even growth; prune dead fronds as needed; maintain stable temperature (60-75°F)
Propagation
Variable, 4-8 weeksPlant develops runners or can be divided; new plantlets emerge from stolons (creeping stems)
Allow runners to establish roots in moist propagation medium; keep under high humidity dome; separate and pot once roots are established
Decline (if conditions fail)
Preventable with proper careFronds brown, crisp, or turn pale; plant appears wilted despite moist soil
Increase humidity immediately; check for root rot and repot if necessary; reduce watering if soil is waterlogged; improve air circulation
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Increase humidity and misting; spray with water or neem oil; isolate affected plant
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Remove with cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol; spray with insecticidal soap; improve air circulation
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Manually remove; treat with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap; keep humidity moderate to prevent recurrence
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Repot in fresh, well-draining medium; reduce watering frequency; improve air circulation; remove affected roots
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Improve air circulation; reduce humidity slightly; spray with sulfur dust or fungicidal soap; remove affected fronds
Uses
Terrarium & Vivarium Plant
HouseholdSelaginella is ideal for closed terrariums, vivariums, and bottle gardens where its love of moisture and shade can be maintained in a controlled environment. Many species create lush ground cover in these miniature ecosystems. [source]
Indoor Air Quality
HouseholdLike most plants, Selaginella contributes to improved indoor air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, making it beneficial for home and office environments. [source]
Traditional Asian Medicine
MedicinalSelaginella tamariscina and other species have been used in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine for centuries to support respiratory and immune function, though scientific evidence remains limited. [source]
Microhabitat for Small Creatures
WildlifeIn outdoor settings or terrariums, Selaginella provides shelter and breeding grounds for small arthropods, springtails, and beneficial microorganisms that support soil health and ecosystem balance. [source]
Ornamental Display & Living Art
CraftThe intricate, delicate fronds of Selaginella make it prized by plant collectors and designers for creating living art installations, moss poles, and highly aesthetic plant displays. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Selaginella is not harvested for food but rather maintained as a living ornamental plant. Prune dead or brown fronds at the base to maintain appearance. Propagate by dividing the plant or separating runners in spring for new specimens. Use soft pruning shears to avoid damaging delicate fronds.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Selaginella species are among the oldest living plants on Earth, with fossils dating back over 300 million years, making them older than dinosaurs and virtually unchanged in form.
- 🌱 Some Selaginella species, notably Selaginella lepidophylla (resurrection plant), can completely dry out and appear dead, then fully revive and regain their green color within hours of being watered—a phenomenon called poikilohydry.
- 🌱 Selaginella reproduces via spores rather than seeds, and requires a moist environment for spore dispersal and germination, similar to ferns and mosses, reflecting its ancient evolutionary origins.
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