The Plant Selaginella engelmannii Hieron. var. scopulorum (Maxon) C.F. Reed
Selaginella engelmannii Hieron. var. scopulorum (Maxon) C.F. Reed is a species of spikemoss in the family Selaginellaceae. Common names for this plant include rocky mountain spikemoss and Engelmann's spike-moss. This plant is native to a number of western states in the USA, such as Colorado, Arizona, Utah, and New Mexico.
General Appearance
Rocky mountain spikemoss is a small plant that grows close to the ground, with branches that measure 5-10 cm long. The plant has thin, needle-like leaves that are densely packed and grow to around 0.2-0.3 cm long. The leaves have a light green color, but may turn brown when exposed to drought or excessive sunlight.
Engelmann's spike-moss is unique in that it is heterosporous, meaning it produces two types of spores: microspores and megaspores. The microspores give rise to male gametophytes, while the megaspores give rise to female gametophytes. This plant flowers from June to July.
Uses
While not commonly used in landscaping, some gardeners may use rocky mountain spikemoss as a groundcover to provide an interesting texture amongst other plants. However, due to its relatively small size and specific growing needs, it can require a fair amount of maintenance. Additionally, the plant may have medicinal properties, with some traditional healers using the plant in the treatment of various conditions including kidney problems, bladder difficulties, and stomach disorders.
Light Requirements
Selaginella engelmannii Hieron var. scopulorum (Maxon) C.F. Reed prefers bright indirect light or partially shaded conditions. Direct sunlight may scorch the delicate leaves of the plant, while low-light conditions may cause the leaves to brown and drop off.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature for growing Selaginella engelmannii Hieron var. scopulorum (Maxon) C.F. Reed is between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. The plant can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures, but it is sensitive to low temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
Soil Requirements
Selaginella engelmannii Hieron var. scopulorum (Maxon) C.F. Reed thrives in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil mixture that is high in peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite is recommended. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, as the plant is sensitive to overwatering.
Cultivation of Selaginella engelmannii Hieron. var. scopulorum (Maxon) C.F. Reed
Selaginella engelmannii Hieron. var. scopulorum (Maxon) C.F. Reed is a beautiful plant that can be grown indoors or outdoors. It prefers a warm and humid environment, making it ideal for growing in a greenhouse or a sunny, sheltered spot in your garden.
The plant can be grown in containers, hanging baskets or planted directly in the ground. It requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Adding perlite or sand to the soil mixture will also help improve drainage.
Watering Needs of Selaginella engelmannii Hieron. var. scopulorum (Maxon) C.F. Reed
Selaginella engelmannii Hieron. var. scopulorum (Maxon) C.F. Reed requires consistent moisture for proper growth. It should be watered regularly, especially during the hot and dry summer months. The soil should be kept consistently moist, but not waterlogged to avoid root rot.
Watering frequency will depend on the climate and growing conditions, but generally, the plant will need to be watered once or twice a week. Feel the soil with your finger or use a moisture meter to determine when it's time to water the plant.
Fertilization of Selaginella engelmannii Hieron. var. scopulorum (Maxon) C.F. Reed
Selaginella engelmannii Hieron. var. scopulorum (Maxon) C.F. Reed will benefit from fertilization during the growing season, in spring and summer. Use a balanced fertilizer, with an equal ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for mixing and application.
Take care to avoid over-fertilization which can lead to salt buildup in the soil and damage to the plant. Always water the plant before and after fertilizing to prevent fertilizer burn and evenly distribute the nutrients in the soil.
Pruning of Selaginella engelmannii Hieron. var. scopulorum (Maxon) C.F. Reed
Pruning is not necessary for Selaginella engelmannii Hieron. var. scopulorum (Maxon) C.F. Reed. However, you can remove any yellow or damaged fronds with a pair of clean, sharp scissors to maintain the plant's appearance and health. Wear gloves when handling the plant to avoid contact with the sap, which can cause skin irritation.
Propagation of Selaginella engelmannii Hieron. var. scopulorum (Maxon) C.F. Reed
Selaginella engelmannii Hieron. var. scopulorum (Maxon) C.F. Reed, commonly known as Engelmann's spike-moss or rock spikemoss, is a species of plant that belongs to the family Selaginellaceae. It is native to the western United States, where it is found in rocky habitats such as cliffs and boulders.
Propagation of Selaginella engelmannii Hieron. var. scopulorum (Maxon) C.F. Reed can be done through spores and stem cuttings. Here are some methods for propagating this plant:
Propagation through spores:
Spores are the most common method of propagation for Selaginella engelmannii Hieron. var. scopulorum (Maxon) C.F. Reed. This type of propagation should be done during the spring or summer. Here are the steps to propagate this plant through spores:
- Collect spores from mature spike-moss plants by placing them in a plastic bag and crushing them gently.
- Place spores in a fine layer on top of moist soil in a propagation tray.
- Mist the tray with water and cover it with plastic wrap to maintain high humidity.
- Place the tray in a warm location with indirect light.
- Spores will germinate in 7-10 days and grow into mature plants in 4-6 months.
Propagation through stem cuttings:
Propagation through stem cuttings is less common, but can be an effective method for propagating larger Selaginella engelmannii Hieron. var. scopulorum (Maxon) C.F. Reed plants. This type of propagation should be done in the spring or fall when the plant is actively growing. Here are the steps to propagate this plant through stem cuttings:
- Select a healthy, established plant and cut a 2-3 inch section of stem that has at least one node.
- Remove the lower leaves from the stem cutting.
- Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone.
- Plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix and water thoroughly.
- Place the cutting in bright, indirect light and keep the soil moist.
- The cutting should root and grow into a new plant in 2-4 weeks.
Disease Management for Selaginella engelmannii Hieron. var. scopulorum
Like other plants, Selaginella engelmannii Hieron. var. scopulorum is vulnerable to a range of diseases. The following are common diseases that might affect the plant:
- Leaf Spot Disease: This disease is characterized by black spots on the leaves, which can reduce the plant's ability to absorb sunlight and grow. The best way to manage it is to remove the affected leaves and spray the plant with a fungicide.
- Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that can be caused by poor drainage or overwatering. Symptoms include yellowing leaves and wilting. The best way to manage this disease is to reduce watering and improve drainage. If the plant is severely affected, it may need to be repotted.
- Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that can cause white patches on the leaves. The best way to manage this disease is to improve air circulation around the plant and to spray it with a fungicide.
Pest Management for Selaginella engelmannii Hieron. var. scopulorum
Selaginella engelmannii Hieron. var. scopulorum is also vulnerable to a range of pests. The following are common pests that might affect the plant:
- Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause discoloration and small webs on the leaves. The best way to manage them is to rinse the plant with water and spray it with a miticide.
- Scale Insects: Scale insects are small, slow-moving pests that can latch onto the leaves and stems of the plant. They can cause yellowing and stunted growth. The best way to manage them is to wipe the plant with a damp cloth and to apply an insecticide.
- Aphids: Aphids are small insects that can feed on the leaves and stems of the plant, causing curling and distortion. The best way to manage them is to rinse the plant with water and apply an insecticide.
It is important to regularly inspect Selaginella engelmannii Hieron. var. scopulorum for signs of diseases and pests. Early detection and prompt action can help prevent further damage and ensure the plant remains healthy.
