Narrow-leaved Spikemoss
selaginella stenophylla
Also known as: ["Narrow-leaved Clubmoss","Narrow-leaved Spike Moss"]
Overview
A delicate, evergreen spikemoss with narrow, scale-like leaves forming dense mats. It thrives in humid, shaded environments and is often used in terrariums or as a ground cover.
Benefits & Perks
["shade tolerant","aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Lycopodiophyta |
| Class: | Lycopodiopsida |
| Order: | Selaginellales |
| Family: | Selaginellaceae |
| Genus: | Selaginella |
| Botanical Name: | Selaginella stenophylla |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or indoor pot in a humid environment
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–28°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain moderate to high humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil mix with peat moss, perlite, and a bit of sand.
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 removing more than one-third of the plant at a time.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to brighter light to prevent scorching; place in a spot with filtered light if outdoors; indoors, keep near an east or north window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to filtered light
Avoid direct afternoon sun; rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; avoid letting the plant dry out completely; ensure good drainage.
Soil
well-draining, humus-rich soil with added perlite or sand
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).
Ensure good drainage; maintain slightly acidic pH; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerates a range of 50–85°F (10–29°C); avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.
Avoid drafts; maintain stable temperatures; protect from extreme heat or cold.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Apply rooting hormone if using.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat moss and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy stems; maintain humidity; keep warm and bright but indirect light.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or use clean shears to cut just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged growth to maintain health and appearance; encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Sharp, clean scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; promotes fresh soil and root health.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim 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 directly at the soil level, ensuring even moisture distribution; allow excess water to drain freely; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
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 like peat moss for moisture retention.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or browning leaf tips.
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.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; ensure adequate watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.
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 stenophylla is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not produce compounds that are harmful to felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicSelaginella stenophylla is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not produce compounds that are harmful to canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicSelaginella stenophylla is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and incidental ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Selaginella stenophylla toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How should I care for Selaginella stenophylla?
A: Provide high humidity, indirect light, and keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Q: Can Selaginella stenophylla be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it is well-suited for indoor cultivation, especially in terrariums or humid environments.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Selaginellaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to filtered ligh |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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