Habitat:
Selaginella serpens is native to the tropical regions of Central and South America, with its distribution extending from southern Mexico through Central America and into northern parts of South America, including Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, and Peru. It typically occurs at low to mid elevations, from 100 to 1,200 metres above sea level. This species grows in humid, shaded rainforest environments, often carpeting the forest floor or climbing over mossy rocks and tree bases. It thrives in areas with consistently high moisture and dense canopy cover, often in association with ferns and bryophytes.
Description:
Selaginella serpens is a small, creeping lycophyte that forms dense mats or trailing strands along the ground or vertical surfaces. Stems are slender, wiry, and branching, typically extending 20–40 cm or more. The leaves are arranged in four ranks: two lateral and two smaller ventral rows, giving the plant a flattened appearance. Leaf blades are lanceolate to ovate, only 1–2 mm long, and bear faint serrations toward the tip. The plant is bright green to yellow-green and has a slightly glossy texture. Reproduction occurs via sporangia located on the upper side of modified leaves (sporophylls) along specialized fertile shoots. This species is similar to Selaginella kraussiana but can be distinguished by its finer growth, more trailing habit, and delicate, smaller foliage.
Cultivation:
Selaginella serpens grows best in bright, filtered light and should be protected from direct sunlight. It prefers warm daytime temperatures between 22°C and 27°C and nighttime temperatures no lower than 15°C. High humidity is essential—ideally between 70% and 90%—making it ideal for terrariums or humid greenhouses. It thrives in a moisture-retentive but free-draining substrate such as a mix of peat moss, perlite, and fine orchid bark. The preferred soil pH is slightly acidic to neutral (5.5–6.5). Keep the soil evenly moist at all times, but avoid waterlogging. Reduce watering slightly in cooler months. Fertilise monthly during the growing season using a diluted, balanced fertiliser. Good air circulation is important to prevent fungal issues.
 
Specifications:
Plant Size: Divisions of about 8-15 cm from our stock plant.
Plant Family: Selaginellaceae
Plant Passport: Selaginella serpens B 140084 C 13077 D GB