Selaginella Wallichi

Quick facts

Identity

Also known as

Wallich's Spikemoss; Spike Moss; Peacock Fern-style plant

Synonyms

Selaginella wallichi

Environment

Terrestrial

Native to

Tropical Asia, Africa, Brazil

Habitat

Humid forest floors and shaded, moist ground in tropical and subtropical regions

Sourcing

Aquacultured

Conservation

Not Evaluated

Care

Care level

Easy

Growth form

Upright

Max height

3 – 10 in (7.6 – 25 cm)

Spread

24 in (61 cm)

Growth rate

Moderate

Placement

Midground, Background

Water

Temperature

65 – 80 °F (18 – 27 °C)

Humidity

50 – 80%

Planting

Substrate

Nutrient-rich preferred

Feeds from

Roots

Fertilizer needs

Low

Colors

Green

Feeding & breeding

Propagation

Cuttings, Rhizome division

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Care guide

Overview

Grown across humid tropical regions of Asia, Africa, and Brazil, this spikemoss spreads sporadically through terrarium and paludarium backgrounds above the waterline rather than submerged. It forms an upright, fuller habit than African Club Moss when pruned regularly, and tolerates handling and boisterous tankmates well. Bright indirect light, moist soil, and steady humidity keep the fronds healthy.

Care

Wallich's spikemoss is a terrestrial fern ally suited to humid terrariums, vivariums, and paludarium backgrounds above the waterline rather than true aquariums. It grows in an upright, spreading habit and will fill an enclosure over time if not pruned back periodically. Bright but indirect light suits it best, since direct sun scorches the delicate fronds, and it needs a consistently moist substrate with strong ambient humidity to stay healthy. It tolerates handling well and holds up to boisterous terrarium livestock such as larger invertebrates or amphibians.

Planting & trimming

Remove any cotton or packing material from the roots before planting into a quality, well-draining soil mix a few inches deep, since the roots grow fairly deep once established. Position the plant out of direct light in a humid area above the waterline in paludariums, or throughout a standard terrarium substrate. Prune regularly to control its spreading habit and encourage a fuller, bushier form.

Fertilizing

This spikemoss is not a heavy feeder and rarely needs supplemental fertilizer in a terrarium setting, since it draws nutrients from a rich organic soil mix through its roots. Yellowing fronds usually point to overwatering rather than a nutrient shortage, so check drainage and moisture levels before assuming a deficiency. Occasional weak liquid fertilizer during active growth can help fill out sparse areas, but it is not essential.

Propagation

New plants are most easily produced by taking stem cuttings from healthy growth and rooting them in moist substrate under high humidity. Division of an established, spreading clump is also effective, separating rooted sections and replanting them in fresh soil.

Problems

Yellowing or mushy fronds are the most common problem and typically indicate waterlogged substrate or standing water at the roots rather than underwatering. Poor air circulation combined with high humidity can encourage mold or mildew on the foliage, so enclosures should allow some airflow even while staying humid. Direct sunlight quickly scorches the thin leaves, showing up as browning or crisping at the tips.

Sources

1. Selaginella wallichii - PetZoneSD
2. Selaginella Wallichi - Nature Aquariums USA
3. Wallace's Spike Moss (L) - Selaginella wallichii - Aquatic Plants SA
4. Selaginella Plana Spike Moss Terrarium Plant - Buce Plant