Habitat
Selaginella stellata is native throughout Mesoamerica and northern South America, including Mexico, Central America (Guatemala, Belize, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama), and countries like Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname, and French Guiana. It thrives in moist montane rainforests and similar shaded environments between 300 and 2,200 metres elevation. It typically grows as a terrestrial mat-forming lycophyte on damp forest floors, along trail edges, rocks, and occasionally limestone outcrops. This species has also been introduced to Hawaii.
Description
A creeping, herbaceous lycophyte, S. stellata features straw-coloured, erect to suberect stems, which branch 2–3 times and often develop rhizophores from the lower third. Leaves are arranged in four ranks with anisophyllous form—lateral leaves are ovate to oblong-ovate, up to 4.5 mm long, with rounded bases and often cilia at the leaf base, while median leaves are narrower and acuminate; axillary leaves are linear-oblong and auriculate with single cilia on the auricles. The plant produces quadrangular strobili ranging from 5–22 mm long. This species is commonly known as “starry spikemoss” and is distinguished from close relatives like S. galeottii by its conspicuous auriculate and eciliate leaves.
Cultivation
Grow Selaginella stellata in low to moderate light—bright indirect light or shade that mimics its forest understory habitat. It flourishes in very high humidity (80–95%) and requires consistently moist yet well-draining substrate, such as a mix of sphagnum, perlite, and leaf mould. Provide a daytime temperature range of 20–24 °C and a nighttime range of 16–18 °C, reflecting the conditions of its montane habitats. Avoid allowing the substrate to dry and ensure gentle but steady air circulation. It is well suited to terrarium cultivation or shaded, humid containers. Minor misting and the use of soft water can boost vitality.
Specifications
Plant Size: divisions from our stock plant. These measure 15-20 cm tall. 2-3 growths.
Plant Family: Selaginellaceae
Plant Passport: Selaginella stellata B 140084 C  14563 D GB