Habitat and Location:
Selaginella willdenowii, commonly known as Peacock Fern or Blue Spike Moss, is native to the tropical rainforests of Andaman Is., Cambodia, China South-Central, China, Java, Laos, Malaya, Myanmar, Philippines, Sulawesi, Sumatera, Thailand, and Vietnam. It thrives in humid, shaded environments, often growing on forest floors, rocky outcrops, or tree trunks as a terrestrial or epiphytic plant. Its natural habitat is characterized by high humidity, moderate temperatures, and low light levels beneath the dense forest canopy.
Description:
Selaginella willdenowii is admired for its striking iridescent foliage, which shimmers with hues of blue, green, and purple under certain lighting conditions. The intricate, fern-like leaves form a dense, spreading mat, making it a visually stunning ground cover or accent plant. This species is a spikemoss, which is neither a true moss nor a fern but is related to ancient vascular plants. Its vibrant coloration and delicate, feathery texture give it a unique, almost ethereal quality.
With its cascading habit, Selaginella willdenowii is a popular choice for terrariums, shaded gardens, or as an indoor ornamental plant, ensuring sufficient humidity.
Care Instructions:
Selaginella willdenowii prefers low to medium indirect light, as direct sunlight can scorch its delicate foliage. For optimal growth, maintain consistently moist but well-drained soil. A substrate rich in organic matter, such as a mix of peat moss and perlite, works well to retain moisture without waterlogging. This plant thrives in warm, humid conditions, with daytime temperatures of 20-26°C and nighttime temperatures around 15-20°C.
High humidity (above 60%) is essential for this species, so regular misting or the use of a humidity tray is recommended when grown indoors. Avoid allowing the soil to dry out completely, as this can cause the plant to wilt. Fertilize sparingly during the growing season with a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer to promote healthy growth.
Specifications:
Plant Size: 5 cm pots, plant 10 cm
Family: Selaginellaceae
Plant Passport: A Selaginella willdenowii B 140084 c 13391 d GB
