How to Grow Spikemoss, Peacock fern, Tamarisk fern
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Spikemoss, Peacock fern, Tamarisk fern
Selaginella tamariscina
herbSelaginella tamariscina is a delicate, feathery fern-like plant that belongs to the clubmoss family (Lycopodiophyta) rather than true ferns. It is prized as an ornamental houseplant and ground cover in terrariums and shaded gardens, known for its lacy, soft fronds that can range from bright green to bronze-red depending on growing conditions. The plant is also used in traditional Asian medicine and is valued for its aesthetic elegance in botanical collections.
When should you plant Spikemoss, Peacock fern, Tamarisk fern in your zone?
Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.
Example Spikemoss, Peacock fern, Tamarisk fern timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Spikemoss, Peacock fern, Tamarisk fern
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, Peacock fern, Tamarisk fern
Around Apr 25≈ 8 days after planting
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 9b-11; grow indoors in cooler climates
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Get my Spikemoss, Peacock fern, Tamarisk fern timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
4-6 weeksYoung plant showing small, tightly clustered fronds emerging from rhizomes
Maintain high humidity and consistent moisture; keep out of direct sun; use sterile potting mix to prevent fungal issues
Vegetative Growth
8-12 weeksFronds lengthen and branch, creating the characteristic feathery, fern-like appearance with multiple branches
Continue misting and maintaining humidity; ensure bright, indirect light; do not fertilize heavily
Mature Growth
Ongoing with proper carePlant reaches full size with dense, layered frond structure; colors may intensify if light conditions are optimal
Reduce watering frequency slightly as plant is established; maintain humidity; occasional feeding with diluted liquid fertilizer
Senescence
Occurs if conditions deteriorateLower fronds may brown or become sparse; plant may decline if conditions become too dry or light insufficient
Remove dead fronds carefully; increase humidity and check watering schedule; consider refreshing potting mix annually
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Increase humidity significantly; spray with water; use neem oil or insecticidal soap if severe; avoid chemical pesticides which can damage delicate fronds
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Remove with cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol; spray with insecticidal soap; isolate infected plant
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Reduce watering frequency; improve drainage; repot into fresh, sterile soil; remove affected roots
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Hand-remove visible scales; treat with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap
Uses
Traditional Asian herbal medicine
MedicinalSelaginella tamariscina is used in Chinese Traditional Medicine (where it's called 卷柏 or Juan Bai) to treat coughs, fever, and inflammation. The plant contains bioactive compounds that have been studied for immune-supporting and antioxidant properties. [source]
Ornamental houseplant and terrarium specimen
HouseholdPrized in interior design for its delicate, feathery foliage and elegant appearance. Ideal for tropical terrariums, glass cases, and humid indoor gardens where it adds fine texture and ethereal beauty. [source]
Moisture-loving ecosystem component
WildlifeIn humid woodland settings, provides microhabitat structure for small arthropods and contributes to moisture retention in soil ecosystems. [source]
Culinary garnish in Asian cuisine
CulinaryIn some East Asian food traditions, fresh fronds are used as an elegant garnish for salads and dishes, prized for visual appeal rather than significant nutritional contribution. [source]
Floral and pressed plant designs
CraftThe delicate fronds press beautifully and are used in botanical art, pressed flower arrangements, and decorative resin crafts. [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 tamariscina is not harvested for culinary purposes in typical gardening. In traditional medicine contexts, aerial portions are harvested year-round by carefully cutting or pinching fronds; allow plant to recover before harvesting again. For medicinal use, harvest mature plants during growing season (spring-summer).
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Selaginella tamariscina is often called the 'resurrection plant' in some regions because it can survive extreme desiccation and rehydrate dramatically when water is reintroduced—a phenomenon called poikilohydry.
- 🌱 Unlike true ferns, Selaginella belongs to an ancient group of vascular plants (clubmosses) that have existed for over 300 million years, predating flowering plants.
- 🌱 The plant's fronds can shift color from vibrant green to russet-bronze depending on light intensity and environmental stress, making it a dynamic and color-changing houseplant.
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