Origin:
Selaginella densa Rydb. var. scopulorum (Maxon) R. Tryon is a species in the family Selaginellaceae, which belongs to the class Lycopodiopsida. It is a type of fern ally plant that is native to the western United States, specifically in Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah.
Common Names:
There are various common names used to refer to Selaginella densa Rydb. var. scopulorum (Maxon) R. Tryon. Some of these include Rocky Mountain Spikemoss, Spreading Spikemoss, and Scaly Spikemoss.
Uses:
Selaginella densa Rydb. var. scopulorum (Maxon) R. Tryon is primarily used for ornamental purposes, especially in landscaping. It is a popular plant to use in rock gardens, as well as in shaded areas where other plants may not thrive. Additionally, it can be used as a groundcover.
General Appearance:
Selaginella densa Rydb. var. scopulorum (Maxon) R. Tryon is a low-growing, mat-forming plant. It has small, scaly leaves that are approximately 0.25-0.5 inches long. The leaves are a yellowish-green color and are arranged in a spiral pattern along the stems. The stems are thin and wiry, and can reach a length of up to 12 inches. The plant typically grows to a height of 2-4 inches, with a spread of 12-24 inches. It has a very delicate and graceful appearance, but is also quite hardy and adaptable to various growing conditions.
Light Requirements
The Selaginella densa Rydb. var. scopulorum (Maxon) R. Tryon plant requires moderate to bright indirect light. It should not be exposed to direct sunlight as it can lead to leaf burn. The plant can grow and thrive under shaded or partially shaded conditions as well.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers cool to moderate temperatures. It grows best between 60-75°F (15-23°C). The temperature should not exceed 80°F (27°C), as it can damage the plant. Additionally, the plant requires a well-ventilated area as stagnant air can lead to leaf drop.
Soil Requirements
The Selaginella densa Rydb. var. scopulorum (Maxon) R. Tryon plant requires well-draining soil to grow and thrive. It prefers soil with a pH range of 4.5-6.0, slightly acidic to neutral. The soil should be nutrient-rich with organic matter. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and sand is ideal for this plant.
Water Requirements
The plant requires consistently moist soil but should not be allowed to sit in water. It is best to water the plant once the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can result in brown foliage. Ensure proper drainage and avoid using hard water as the minerals can accumulate in the soil over time.
Cultivation Method for Selaginella densa Rydb. var. scopulorum (Maxon) R. Tryon
Selaginella densa Rydb. var. scopulorum (Maxon) R. Tryon, commonly known as Rocky Mountain spikemoss, is a low-growing evergreen perennial plant. It is a suitable plant for containers as well as ground covers in the garden. Here is a guide on how to cultivate the plant:
- Grow the plant in well-drained soil with a pH level ranging from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline.
- Provide the plant with partial to full shade. It prefers shade in the afternoon to prevent leaf scorching.
- Propagate the plant through spores or stem cuttings. The ideal time for propagation is in the spring.
- Plant the spores or stem cuttings in a well-draining soil mix that is kept evenly moist.
Watering Needs for Selaginella densa Rydb. var. scopulorum (Maxon) R. Tryon
The plant needs regular watering to thrive, but it is sensitive to overwatering. Overwatering may lead to root rot, which can kill the plant. Here are some watering needs for the plant:
- Water the plant regularly during the growing season, keeping soil moist but not waterlogged.
- During the winter season, reduce watering frequency to avoid waterlogging the plant.
- Ensure the soil mix is well-draining to prevent waterlogging.
Fertilization for Selaginella densa Rydb. var. scopulorum (Maxon) R. Tryon
The plant is not a heavy feeder and only requires minimal fertilization. Here are some tips on the fertilization needs of the plant:
- Apply a slow-release balanced fertilizer to the soil mix during the growing season. Use according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Feed the plant every four weeks during the growing season.
- Avoid excess nitrogen as it may lead to undesired growth of the plant.
Pruning Selaginella densa Rydb. var. scopulorum (Maxon) R. Tryon
Pruning is not necessary for Selaginella densa Rydb. var. scopulorum (Maxon) R. Tryon. However, pruning can be done to remove any dead or damaged leaves. Here are some tips on pruning the plant:
- Remove dead leaves as well as any brown or yellow leaves.
- Gently snip the leaves near the base with a pair of pruning shears or scissors.
- Prune the plant during the growing season to allow for the growth of new leaves.
Propagation methods for Selaginella densa Rydb. var. scopulorum (Maxon) R. Tryon
Selaginella densa Rydb. var. scopulorum (Maxon) R. Tryon, commonly known as mountain spike-moss is a fern ally and a popular ornamental plant. It is native to the western United States and grows primarily in rocky, high altitude areas. Propagation of S. densa can be achieved through spores or by vegetative means.
Propagation through spores
Propagation of S. densa through spores is the most common method for growing this plant. Spores are usually collected from mature spike-moss plants using a paper bag or a container. The spores are then cleaned and stored in a cool, dry place. To achieve high germination rates, spores are usually sown on a sterile medium such as peat moss. The medium should be moist but not waterlogged, and the sowing container should be sealed or covered to maintain high humidity.
Spores of S. densa usually germinate in 4 to 6 weeks, but it may take up to 3 months for some individuals to germinate because of their subterranean growth habit and slow rate of growth. Once the spores have germinated, they can be transplanted into individual pots or trays.
Vegetative propagation
Vegetative propagation of S. densa can be done using stem cuttings or by dividing mature plants. Stem cuttings should be taken from the parent plant, ensuring they are free from diseases or insect damage. The cuttings should be planted in a container filled with a mixture of peat moss and sand or on a sterile medium. The soil should be kept moist and the container should be covered to maintain high humidity.
To divide mature S. densa plants, gently pull apart the stems and rhizomes ensuring each division has a portion of the rhizome and several stems. These divisions can be planted in separate containers filled with peat moss and covered to maintain high humidity.
Propagation of S. densa through vegetative means is a quicker method than using spores, but it is less common because of the plant's slow growth rate and subterranean growing habit.
Disease Management
The Selaginella densa Rydb. var. scopulorum (Maxon) R. Tryon, commonly known as the rock spikemoss, is relatively resistant to diseases. However, it can occasionally suffer from fungal and bacterial infections.
One common disease that affects the rock spikemoss is the Fusarium wilt. This fungal disease can cause the plant to wilt and die slowly. The best way to manage this disease is to prevent it from spreading to healthy plants. You can achieve this by immediately removing and destroying infected plants and avoiding planting new plants in the same soil for at least four years.
Bacterial diseases can also affect the rock spikemoss. The typical symptoms of a bacterial infection include leaf spots, stem cankers, and yellowing of foliage. To manage bacterial infections, prune diseased leaves and stems and discard them safely. Additionally, ensure your pruning tools are clean and sterilized to avoid spreading the disease.
Pest Management
The rock spikemoss is also relatively immune to pests. However, it can occasionally suffer from insect attacks, including mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects.
Mealybugs are tiny insects that feed on the sap of the plant. They can cause the plant to weaken, yellow, and eventually die. To manage mealybugs, physically remove them from the plant using a cloth or cotton swab soaked in warm water and soap. You can also spray the plant with insecticidal soap.
Spider mites are other pests that can affect the rock spikemoss. They suck sap from the leaves, causing stunted and discolored growth. To control spider mites, ensure the plant is well watered and frequently misted. Additionally, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil to manage the pests.
Scale insects are tiny, non-moving insects that attach themselves to the plant's stem and suck sap from it. They can cause discoloration and deformity of the plant. To manage scale insects, remove them physically using a cotton swab or cloth soaked in rubbing alcohol or horticultural oil. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to manage them.
