Origin
Huperzia selago (L.) Bernh. var. miyoshiana (Makino) Taylor & MacBryde, also known as Miyoshi's firmoss, is a species of fern in the family Lycopodiaceae. It is native to Japan and can be found in the mountains of Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu.
Common Names
Aside from Miyoshi's firmoss, this plant is also known by other common names depending on the region. In Japan, it is called "takasago" or "takagi". In other parts of the world, it is referred to as Selago, Fir Clubmoss, or Stag's-horn Clubmoss.
Uses
This plant has been traditionally used for medicinal purposes such as treating fever, digestive problems, and respiratory illnesses. It has also been used as an astringent and to promote wound healing. Aside from its medicinal uses, it is also used as an ornamental plant due to its delicate and fascinating appearance.
General Appearance
Miyoshi's firmoss is a perennial plant that grows up to 15cm in height and 10cm in width. It has branching stems that grow upright and have a reddish-grey color. The leaves are small and needle-like, arranged spirally on the stem. The plant produces a single cone-shaped strobilus that contains small spores for reproduction. Each spore has four elaters, which are specialized cells that aid in dispersal by wind.
Growth Conditions for Huperzia selago var. miyoshiana
Huperzia selago var. miyoshiana is a type of clubmoss that grows well in natural or artificially created environments. Understanding its optimal growth conditions is important to foster its development to maturity.
Light
Clubmosses like Huperzia selago var. miyoshiana prefer shade or partial sunlight environments. Full direct sunlight may cause browning and drying of foliage. Therefore, it is best to place the plant in an area where it can receive filtered or indirect sunlight. Growing it under full shade could prevent its capacity to photosynthesize and cause the plant to overgrow, resulting in poor development.
Temperature
The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 55 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit. Temperatures above the recommended range may lead to dehydration and death of the plant. At extremely low temperatures below 23 degrees Fahrenheit, the soil may freeze and damage its root system, eventually killing the plant.
Soil
Huperzia selago var. miyoshiana thrives best in acid soils. Therefore, the soil pH should be maintained at about 4.5 – 5.5. A soil mixture of peat moss, perlite, and sand is ideal for planting. The consistency of the soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. Overwatering might lead to root rot and eventual death.
The plant has shallow roots, so ensure the soil is loose and porous to allow for better water and nutrient uptake. Fertilization is not necessary, but if required, use a weak liquid fertilizer or organic garden compost, which reduces soil acidity and boosts soil nutrients.
Finally, clubmosses like Huperzia selago var. miyoshiana prefer environments with high humidity. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the environment has adequate moisture levels to avoid drying of foliage.
Cultivation Methods:
Huperzia selago (L.) Bernh. var. miyoshiana (Makino) Taylor & MacBryde is a hardy plant and can grow in various conditions, with a preference for moist but well-draining soil. It requires a pH level between 5 to 6.5 and can be cultivated via rhizome division or spore propagation. Rhizome division is typically done in spring or early fall. The spores, which produce thrifty new growth, should be sown on moist soil in the fall.
Watering Needs:
The plant requires regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist. It can tolerate slightly drier soil for brief periods but should not be allowed to completely dry out. However, overwatering can lead to root rot, so make sure not to let the plant stand in water. The amount of water required depends on the temperature and humidity of the room where the plant is growing. It is essential to use water with a neutral pH level to prevent any damage to the roots.
Fertilization:
Huperzia selago (L.) Bernh. var. miyoshiana (Makino) Taylor & MacBryde does not require much fertilization, but it does benefit from occasional light feeding with a balanced fertilizer. It is preferable to use a slow-release fertilizer during the growing season, such as organic compost or vermicompost. Avoid over-fertilizing as this can lead to an excessive build-up of minerals and salts in the soil, causing damage to the roots and leaves of the plant.
Pruning:
Pruning is necessary for maintaining the shape of the plant and removing any dead or yellowing foliage. Pruning should be done in early spring before new growth begins or immediately after the plant has finished flowering in late summer. Cut back the stems to just above the leaf node, and remove any dead or damaged foliage. Do not remove more than one-third of the plant in one pruning session. Also, avoid pruning during the dormant season, or this can stress the plant, and it may take some time to recover from any damage.
Propagation of Huperzia Selago var. Miyoshiana
Huperzia Selago var. Miyoshiana can be propagated through both spores and vegetative propagation.
Spore Propagation
The plant produces spores that can be collected and grown into new plants. Spores are typically harvested when the sporangia begin to dry out and the spores turn brown. The spores are then sown on a sterile medium and kept in a moist environment. It can take several weeks for the spores to germinate and new plants to emerge.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation can be accomplished through rhizome division or stem cuttings. Rhizomes can be divided and planted individually, while stem cuttings can be taken from healthy adult plants and rooted in a suitable medium. It's important to keep the medium moist and at varying levels of light until roots have developed.
Overall, Huperzia Selago var. Miyoshiana can be propagated through both spores and vegetative propagation, providing options for both experienced and novice growers.
Disease management
The Huperzia selago (L.) Bernh. var. miyoshiana (Makino) Taylor & MacBryde plant is commonly affected by several types of diseases, including:
- Brown blotch: This is a fungal disease that leads to the formation of brown patches on the plant leaves. The infected leaves eventually shrivel, and the plant can die if the infection is severe.
- Grey mould: This is another fungal disease that can attack the plant during periods of high humidity. The infected leaves turn brown or grey and eventually fall off.
- Root rot: Overwatering or poorly drained soil can lead to root rot. The leaves of the plant turn yellow, and the plant can die if the root rot is severe.
To manage these diseases, it is recommended to:
- Ensure proper sanitation practices, such as removing infected plant material and cleaning tools and equipment
- Avoid overwatering and provide proper drainage to prevent root rot
- Use fungicides when necessary
- Choose disease-resistant varieties when possible
Pest management
The Huperzia selago (L.) Bernh. var. miyoshiana (Makino) Taylor & MacBryde plant can also be affected by various pests, including:
- Aphids: These insects can cause stunted growth and distortion of the plant leaves. They also excrete a sugary substance that attracts ants.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can form webs on the plant leaves and suck the sap from them, causing them to turn yellow and fall off.
- Scale insects: These insects feed on the sap of the plant and secrete a sticky substance that attracts other pests, such as ants and wasps. They can cause yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth.
To manage these pests, it is recommended to:
- Remove and destroy severely infested plants to prevent the spread of pests
- Prune and dispose of affected plant parts
- Use insecticides when necessary
- Encourage natural predators, such as ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps, to control pest populations
