How to Grow Blue Spikemoss
iNaturalist
Blue Spikemoss
Selaginella uncinata
herbBlue spikemoss is a delicate, creeping moss-like plant known for its striking iridescent blue-green foliage that shimmers in the light. It is a primitive vascular plant that thrives in humid, shaded environments and is prized as an ornamental houseplant and terrarium specimen. Despite resembling moss, it is technically a lycopod with true roots, stems, and leaves.
When should you plant Blue Spikemoss in your zone?
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Example Blue Spikemoss timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Blue 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 Blue Spikemoss
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Blue Spikemoss dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Best grown indoors or in zones 10-11; can be cultivated outdoors in tropical and subtropical climates
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Get my Blue Spikemoss timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
2-4 weeksNew plantlets or divisions are small, delicate, and pale green as they adjust to growing conditions
Maintain high humidity (mist 2-3 times daily), keep soil moist, provide bright indirect light, and avoid moving the plant frequently
Vegetative Growth
2-6 monthsCreeping stems develop roots along their length, spreading horizontally; blue iridescent coloration intensifies with proper light and humidity
Ensure consistent moisture and humidity; provide gentle air circulation without direct drafts; fertilize monthly with diluted, balanced fertilizer
Spreading/Maturity
Ongoing (3-12 months and beyond)Plant fills out its space with dense, cascading or creeping growth; the distinctive blue shimmer becomes fully visible
Maintain high humidity and consistent moisture; prune or trim to shape as desired; monitor for fungal issues due to moisture
Propagation Ready
12+ monthsMature stems with established root nodes can be separated and propagated into new plants
Gently separate rooted stem sections; pot individually in moist, humus-rich soil; maintain high humidity for new divisions
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Increase humidity to 70%+, mist regularly, wash foliage with water; use neem oil as a last resort in well-ventilated areas
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Remove with a damp cloth or cotton swab; isolate infected plants; treat with insecticidal soap if severe
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Allow soil surface to dry slightly between waterings; use yellow sticky traps; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal development
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Ensure soil drains well and is never waterlogged; improve air circulation; repot in fresh soil if roots are affected
Uses
Ornamental Terrarium Plant
HouseholdBlue spikemoss is ideal for closed or open terrariums, bottle gardens, and humid vivariums where its iridescent blue foliage creates an striking visual focal point. Its low-growing, creeping habit makes it perfect for foreground placement in plant displays. [source]
Tropical Vivarium & Paludarium Design
CraftCommonly used in tropical reptile enclosures, amphibian vivariums, and paludarium setups where high humidity can be maintained. The plant adds aesthetic appeal while thriving in the warm, moist conditions required by reptiles and amphibians. [source]
Indoor Houseplant Display
HouseholdCultivated as an ornamental houseplant for hanging baskets, shallow pots, or plant shelves in humid bathrooms or kitchens. Its trailing growth habit and unique coloration make it a conversation-starting specimen plant. [source]
Vivarium Floor Cover & Microhabitat
WildlifeProvides a naturalistic ground cover in terrariums and vivariums, creating shelter and hiding spots for small insects, arthropods, and amphibians while contributing to a biologically active ecosystem. [source]
Traditional Chinese Medicine
MedicinalSelaginella species have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for respiratory and anti-inflammatory purposes, though scientific evidence is limited. The plant's use reflects cultural botanical practices in East Asian healing traditions. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Not harvested for consumption or material use. Propagate by separating rooted stem sections and planting in moist soil. Trim back overgrown stems to encourage bushier growth and maintain visual appeal.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Selaginella uncinata produces an iridescent blue color due to the structural arrangement of cells that refract light, similar to the coloration of certain butterflies and beetles—this is not from pigment but from light physics.
- 🌱 Unlike true mosses, blue spikemoss has a root system, vascular tissues, and true leaves, making it more advanced evolutionarily; it is a 'living fossil' belonging to a plant group that has existed for over 400 million years.
- 🌱 The plant's common name references its ability to 'resurrect' after drying out; when hydrated, dried spikemoss can absorb water and return to full vitality within hours, a survival strategy called poikilohydry.
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