Overview:
Selaginella engelmannii Hieron. is a plant species from the genus Selaginella, which belongs to the family Selaginellaceae. Commonly known as Engelmann's spike-moss, this plant is native to North America, and it is widely distributed in Canada and the United States.
Appearance:
Selaginella engelmannii has a unique appearance that makes it a distinct member of the Selaginellaceae family. This plant grows up to 10-20cm in height and produces erect, leafy stems that are green in color. The leaves are scale-like, arranged in rows along the stems, and are approximately 3-5mm in length. The plant produces small yellowish-green cones at the tips of the stems, which contain spores for reproduction.
Uses:
Selaginella engelmannii has several uses, and it has been traditionally used for medicinal and ornamental purposes. The plant contains bioactive compounds that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and can be used to treat several health conditions such as arthritis, rheumatism, and gout. Additionally, the plant is commonly used in the landscaping industry as a ground cover or as a decorative plant in rock gardens or terrariums.
Cultivation:
Selaginella engelmannii can be easily grown in a wide range of environments, including moist soils, rocky areas, and shady locations. The plant prefers well-drained soils and moderate moisture levels and can be propagated by spores or stem cuttings. Selaginella engelmannii is a slow-growing plant, and it can take several years to reach its full size.
Conclusion:
Selaginella engelmannii is a unique and versatile plant, and its distinct appearance and medicinal and ornamental uses make it an attractive option for a wide range of gardening and landscaping purposes. With proper care and cultivation, this plant can thrive in a wide range of environments and provide a beautiful and functional addition to any garden or landscape.
Growth Conditions for Selaginella Engelmannii Hieron.
Selaginella engelmannii Hieron. is a fern ally plant that is native to North America. It is commonly known as Engelmann's spike-moss. The plant has specific growth conditions that are crucial for its survival and growth.
Light Requirements
Selaginella engelmannii Hieron. prefers moderate to bright indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the plant and cause damage to its leaves. A combination of shade and filtered light is ideal for the plant. It can also thrive in low light conditions, but the growth rate may be slower.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is well adapted to survive in a range of temperature conditions. However, the ideal temperature range for its growth and development is between 15°C and 30°C. The plant can tolerate warmer temperatures, but it may require more frequent watering to prevent drying out. It can also survive freezing temperatures, but it may lose its leaves and take longer to recover.
Soil Requirements
Selaginella engelmannii Hieron. requires a well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. The soil pH should be between 5.5 and 7.0. The plant prefers loose, porous soil that can hold moisture but drains easily. Adding organic matter to the soil can improve its texture and increase its water-holding capacity. The plant can also grow in a sandy or rocky soil as long as it is well-draining.
By providing the ideal growth conditions, Selaginella engelmannii Hieron. can thrive and display its attractive foliage. It is a low maintenance plant that requires minimal care once its basic needs are met.
Cultivation Methods for Selaginella engelmannii Hieron.
Selaginella engelmannii Hieron. is typically grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and indoor spaces. It requires a moist and humid environment to thrive and grow. The plant can be propagated from spores or by division.
If cultivating from spores, sow them on the surface of peat-based soil, mist them frequently, and wrap the pot with plastic to create a humid environment. The spores should germinate in about 2-3 weeks.
If dividing a larger plant, choose healthy stems with roots, and replant them in moist soil. Keep the soil evenly moist and in a well-lit area, but out of direct sunlight.
Watering Needs for Selaginella engelmannii Hieron.
Selaginella engelmannii Hieron. requires regular watering to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. It is important to avoid letting the soil dry out completely as this will cause the plant to wilt and die.
The plant should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Water the plant thoroughly, making sure the water reaches the roots. It is important to not let the plant sit in standing water as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization of Selaginella engelmannii Hieron.
Since Selaginella engelmannii Hieron. is a slow-growing plant, it does not require frequent fertilization. However, to promote healthy growth, the plant can be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
It is important to follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging, as over-fertilization can lead to salt buildup in the soil and damage the plant.
Pruning Selaginella engelmannii Hieron.
Selaginella engelmannii Hieron. does not require much pruning. However, if the plant becomes too leggy or takes up too much space, it can be trimmed back to maintain its shape.
When pruning, use clean and sharp scissors to avoid damaging the plant. Trim off the excess foliage and stems, leaving a small section of the stem to regrow the plant.
Propagation of Selaginella engelmannii Hieron.
Selaginella engelmannii Hieron. is a perennial plant that is commonly propagated by vegetative means due to the absence of flowers and seeds.
Division
One of the easiest ways to propagate Selaginella engelmannii is through division. This is done by carefully dividing the root ball and separated the clumps into individual plants. This method should be done during the plant’s active growth period to allow the separated plants to establish themselves before winter dormancy.
Stolon cuttings
Propagation by stolon cuttings involves cutting off the runners that grow from the main plant and replanting them. The cutting should be done during the plant’s active growth period and it is important to make sure that each cutting contains a node and at least one leaf. The cutting should then be planted in a well-drained soil with good moisture retention.
Leaf cuttings
Propagation by leaf cuttings is also possible but requires more attention to detail. The leaves should be taken from the healthiest plants at the beginning of the growth season. Ensure that clean, sharp sterilized scissors are used. It is best to make the cut on the leaf stem directly below the leaf blade. After planting the leaf in a suitable rooting medium, apply a thin layer of plastic wrap or a plastic bag around it. Ensure that the medium is kept moist, warm, and protected from direct sunlight. The new plantlets should emerge over the next few weeks.
Regardless of the method chosen, provide the optimum growing conditions during the plant’s growth period and be patient as Selaginella engelmannii Hieron. propagates at its pace.
Disease Management
Selaginella engelmannii Hieron., commonly known as Engelmann's spike-moss, is usually relatively resilient to diseases. However, some diseases may occur, especially in conditions of high temperature and humidity, poor soil drainage, and overwatering.
One of the common diseases that could affect this plant is root rot, caused by various fungi in the soil. To manage root rot, reduce the frequency of watering and improve soil drainage. Infected plants should be removed to prevent spreading the disease.
Fungal leaf spots are also likely to occur in moist environments, resulting in yellowed leaves with brown spots. Fungal leaf spots can quickly spread to the entire plant if left unchecked. To control this disease, remove diseased foliage and treat the plant with copper fungicides or neem oil spray.
Pest Management
Selaginella engelmannii Hieron. is mostly pest-free, but insect infestations, although uncommon, may still occur. During the hot and dry months of the summer, spider mites are the most common pests that could infest this plant. Spider mites usually feed on the plant's sap, causing it to wilt and turn yellow.
Spider mites can be easily eliminated by washing the leaves with a mild soap and lukewarm water. For severe infestations, use a neem oil solution or insecticidal soap to get rid of these pests.
Occasionally, mealybugs may attack this plant, especially in greenhouses that are warm and humid. These soft-bodied pests typically feed on the underside of leaves and also produce a white, cotton-like substance. To get rid of mealybugs, use a cotton swab soaked in rubbing alcohol to remove the pests from the foliage. Plants with severe infestations may require systemic insecticides to eradicate the pests.
