Description of Selaginella densa Rydb. var. standleyi (Maxon) R. Tryon
Selaginella densa Rydb. var. standleyi (Maxon) R. Tryon is a perennial plant that belongs to the family Selaginellaceae. This species is commonly known as Standley's Spikemoss due to its unique appearance that resembles moss.
Origin
Selaginella densa Rydb. var. standleyi (Maxon) R. Tryon is native to Central and South America, specifically found in Belize, Bolivia, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, and Venezuela.
Appearance
Selaginella densa Rydb. var. standleyi (Maxon) R. Tryon has a unique appearance that resembles moss. It features upright stems that grow up to 50 cm long, spreading outwards with bright green needle-like leaves. The plant has creeping and prostrate stems that spread sideways to form dense mats. The leaves are small, measuring about 2 to 5 mm long, and are arranged in a spiral pattern around the stem. Standley's Spikemoss produces spores that grow underneath the leaves.
Uses
Selaginella densa Rydb. var. standleyi (Maxon) R. Tryon is used in traditional medicine in some South American countries to treat various ailments. Additionally, it is favored as an ornamental plant in terrariums, rock gardens, and other indoor and outdoor garden settings due to its unique appearance.
Light Requirements
Selaginella densa Rydb. var. standleyi (Maxon) R. Tryon thrives in partial to full shade conditions. Indirect sunlight is preferred over direct sunlight exposure, as too much sun can damage the foliage and cause it to dry out.
Temperature Requirements
These plants prefer cooler temperatures, with an optimum range of 50°F to 80°F (10°C to 27°C). They can tolerate freezing temperatures temporarily, but extended exposure can cause damage. During the winter, they can tolerate a temperature range of 45°F to 65°F (7°C to 18°C).
Soil Requirements
Selaginella densa Rydb. var. standleyi (Maxon) R. Tryon prefers moist, well-drained soil with a pH level ranging from 4.0 to 6.5. They require soil that is rich in organic matter, and they do not tolerate dry soil well. When planting, ensure that the soil is loose and well-aerated to promote proper root development.
Watering Requirements
These plants require consistent moisture levels, and the soil should never dry out completely. However, they are sensitive to overwatering, and excessive moisture can cause root rot. Maintaining consistent moisture levels is crucial to ensure proper growth and development.
Cultivation methods:
Selaginella densa Rydb. var. standleyi (Maxon) R. Tryon is a terrestrial fern and prefers to grow in well-draining soils with good moisture retention. It is best to plant Selaginella densa Rydb. var. standleyi in a pot or container filled with sandy or loamy soil mix. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged because stagnant water can create root rot and cause the plant to deteriorate. Ideally, the plant should be located in a shaded area with indirect sunlight and high humidity.
Watering needs:
Selaginella densa Rydb. var. standleyi (Maxon) R. Tryon requires regular watering to maintain its lush green appearance. The plant prefers a moist environment, so it's best to water the soil often enough to keep it moist but not saturated. During the summer months, the plant may require daily watering. During the winter, the frequency of watering can be reduced to once or twice a week. The best way to check if your Selaginella densa Rydb. var. standleyi needs watering is by testing the moisture level of the soil.
Fertilization:
Selaginella densa Rydb. var. standleyi (Maxon) R. Tryon is a plant that requires minimum fertilization. Since the plant is slow-growing, it doesn't need frequent fertilization. It's best to feed the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer or a slow-release fertilizer. Over-fertilization can damage the plant and cause stunted growth, so be careful to follow the package instructions and avoid overfeeding.
Pruning:
Selaginella densa Rydb. var. standleyi (Maxon) R. Tryon is a plant that requires minimal pruning. However, it's best to trim away any yellow or dead foliage to keep the plant healthy and prevent further deterioration. Pruning can also be done to control the size of the plant and promote new growth. It's best to prune the plant during the growing season, preferably in the spring. Use a sharp, sterile pair of scissors or pruning shears to cut away any damaged or dead foliage.
Propagation of Selaginella densa Rydb. var. standleyi (Maxon) R. Tryon
Selaginella densa Rydb. var. standleyi (Maxon) R. Tryon, commonly known as Standley's Spike-moss, is a slow-growing, creeping plant found in North and Central America.
The plant can reproduce through both sexual and asexual methods.
Propagation by spores
Spike-mosses like Selaginella densa Rydb. var. standleyi (Maxon) R. Tryon produce spores that can be used for propagation. Spores can be collected from mature plants and then sown on a bed of moist peat moss with good ventilation. It is crucial to keep the soil damp and ensure that the spores do not dry out. With time (a few weeks or a few months), the spores will produce small, green gametophytes that can be transplanted into potting soil.
Propagation by division
Selaginella densa Rydb. var. standleyi (Maxon) R. Tryon plants can be propagated by division, much like many other garden plants. The plant is cut into smaller pieces, and each piece is then planted in a potting medium that is moist and well-draining. It is essential to keep newly divided plant sections moderately moist and out of direct sunlight until new growth appears.
Propagation by stolons
Spike-mosses like Selaginella densa Rydb. var. standleyi (Maxon) R. Tryon produce stolons, which branch out and create new plants. This method of propagation is easy and straightforward. The stolons can be snipped off and planted in potting soil or directly in the garden. Care should be taken not to plant the stolons too deeply, as this can cause them to rot.
Disease Management
Selaginella densa Rydb. var. standleyi (Maxon) R. Tryon is a hardy plant that is resistant to most common diseases. However, it can occasionally be affected by fungal and bacterial infections.
Fungal infections can cause brown spots on the leaves, while bacterial infections can lead to blackening and wilting of the plant. To manage these infections, it is important to remove the infected leaves and discard them properly. Applying fungicides or bactericides can also help prevent the spread of infections.
Pest Management
The Selaginella densa Rydb. var. standleyi (Maxon) R. Tryon plant is not often affected by pests. However, it can sometimes attract spider mites and mealybugs.
Spider mites usually appear as tiny red or brown dots on the leaves and can be controlled by washing the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Mealybugs, on the other hand, look like small, white, cotton-like spots on the leaves and can be removed by wiping them with a piece of cloth soaked in rubbing alcohol.
Regular inspection and maintenance can help prevent pest infestations. Keeping the plant in a clean and well-ventilated area can also help ward off pests.
