Moss Fern
selaginella denticulata
Also known as: ["Moss Fern","Spikemoss"]
Overview
A delicate, creeping evergreen plant with moss-like foliage, often used in terrariums and shaded gardens.
Benefits & Perks
["shade tolerant","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Lycopodiophyta |
| Class: | Lycopodiopsida |
| Order: | Selaginellales |
| Family: | Selaginellaceae |
| Genus: | Selaginella |
| Botanical Name: | Selaginella denticulata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a humid environment with indirect light, or shaded outdoor garden bed
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–28°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity levels
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, peat-based soil with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every few months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate pruning to shape the plant and remove unhealthy parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to new light conditions; place in a spot with filtered light, especially indoors; outdoor placement should be in shade or partial shade.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to filtered light
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct light; monitor for signs of sunburn.
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.
Soil
well-draining, peat-based potting mix with added perlite or sand
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; maintain consistent moisture; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Prefers temperatures between 65–75°F (18–24°C); cooler temperatures (down to 50°F or 10°C) are tolerated but growth slows.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain stable conditions; protect from drafts.
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 only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Apply rooting hormone if desired.
- Plant in moist propagation medium.
- Maintain high 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 for good drainage and moisture retention.
Hormone
Rooting hormone can be used but is not strictly necessary.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–6 weeks; new growth may take several months.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Keep medium consistently moist; maintain high humidity; provide indirect light.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or use clean cuts to remove unwanted growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or damaged growth, and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Sharp, clean scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape as desired; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, when the plant is entering its active growth phase.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one, with drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; helps refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; gently remove plant; trim roots if needed; add fresh soil; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water evenly; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture distribution without pooling.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter for moisture retention.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth indicate temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause leaf drop and slow metabolic processes.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide a heat source if necessary; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf burn, and wilting.
Solution: Increase humidity; provide shade; water more frequently but avoid overwatering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season only.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSelaginella denticulata is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicSelaginella denticulata is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicSelaginella denticulata is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Selaginella denticulata?
A: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Q: Does Selaginella denticulata require direct sunlight?
A: No, it thrives in partial to full shade and direct sunlight can scorch its delicate foliage.
Q: Can Selaginella denticulata be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it is well-suited for indoor cultivation in terrariums or shaded indoor spaces with high humidity.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Selaginellaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to filtered ligh |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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