Peacock Fern
selaginella willdenowii
Also known as: ["Peacock Spikemoss","Giant Spikemoss"]
Overview
A creeping, evergreen spikemoss with striking blue-green foliage that exhibits iridescent purple hues when grown in bright light.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","shade tolerant","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Lycopodiophyta |
| Class: | Lycopodiopsida |
| Order: | Selaginellales |
| Family: | Selaginellaceae |
| Genus: | Selaginella |
| Botanical Name: | Selaginella willdenowii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a humid environment with indirect light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, peat-based mix with perlite or sand; can include orchid bark for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to new light conditions; place in a spot with filtered light; move outdoor plants to shade during peak sun hours.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to filtered light
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct light; avoid south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; ensure good drainage; avoid letting the plant sit in water.
Soil
moist, well-draining, peat-based potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–6.5).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with fresh soil annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerates 50–85°F (10–29°C); prefers stable temperatures without extreme fluctuations.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; keep away from heating/cooling vents; maintain stable conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer) with balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in fall.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 3–4 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F or 21–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth in 2–4 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagator.
Quick Tips
Keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture; use a clear plastic bag to retain humidity.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip stems just above a leaf node; trim leggy growth to encourage bushiness.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged growth to maintain health and appearance; shape as needed to control size.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; gently remove plant; inspect roots; add fresh soil; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water evenly until it drains from the bottom; focus on the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility; use a cactus or succulent mix as a base.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, yellowing, or stunted growth; buds may fail to open in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid placing near drafty windows or cold surfaces.
Hot Stress
Leaves may curl, wilt, or scorch; growth may slow due to excessive heat above 85°F (29°C).
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSelaginella willdenowii is not known to be toxic to cats. It poses no significant health risks upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicSelaginella willdenowii is not known to be toxic to dogs. It poses no significant health risks upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicSelaginella willdenowii is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Selaginella willdenowii?
A: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water when the top inch of soil feels slightly dry.
Q: Does this plant require direct sunlight?
A: No, it prefers bright, indirect light or partial shade to maintain its vibrant color.
Q: Can Selaginella willdenowii be grown outdoors?
A: Yes, in tropical or subtropical climates where temperatures remain above 50°F (10°C) year-round.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Selaginellaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to filtered ligh |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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