Overview of Selaginella pilifera A. Braun
Selaginella pilifera A. Braun, commonly known as the Spikemoss, is a species of vascular plant that belongs to the family Selaginellaceae. It is native to the tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, including China, Taiwan, and Japan, and can be found growing in damp and shady places at elevations ranging from 500 to 2700 meters above sea level.
General Appearance
The Spikemoss is a small perennial plant that is often used to decorate homes and gardens. It has a prostrate growth habit and can reach a height of up to 30 cm, with its leaves and stems forming dense mats. The stems of Selaginella pilifera are typically slender, four-angled, and red-brown in color. Its leaves are arranged in a spiral pattern and are also red-brown, with the undersides of the leaves being lighter in color than the upper surfaces.
Common Names
Selaginella pilifera is commonly known as the Spikemoss, because of the spiky appearance of its stems and leaves. Other common names include Hualuhu, Hualuhuo, and Rupiyada.
Uses of Selaginella pilifera
Traditionally, Selaginella pilifera has been used in Chinese medicine as a tonic for the liver and kidneys. It is also believed to have diuretic properties and is used to treat urinary tract infections.
The Spikemoss is also a popular houseplant due to its attractive appearance and ease of cultivation. Its dense growth habit makes it an excellent ground cover, or it can be grown in hanging baskets or terrariums.
In addition to its ornamental and medicinal uses, Selaginella pilifera is sometimes used as a natural insect repellent due to its high content of lycopene and other compounds that are toxic to insects.
Overall, Selaginella pilifera A. Braun is a versatile and useful plant that can be grown for its aesthetic appeal, medicinal properties, and insect-repellent qualities.
Light Requirements
Selaginella pilifera A. Braun requires moderate to high levels of light to grow optimally. They thrive in bright, indirect or filtered light conditions. Exposure to direct sunlight can cause leaf burn or scorch. Placing the plant near a window that receives bright, indirect light is ideal. If grown indoors, supplemental lighting can be provided using fluorescent or LED grow lights.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers temperatures between 15 to 25°C (59 to 77°F). It can tolerate higher temperatures if humidity levels are high. Cold temperatures below 10°C (50°F) can lead to leaf drop and stunted growth. Keep the plant away from drafty areas and protect it from sudden temperature changes.
Soil requirements
Selaginella pilifera A. Braun prefers well-draining soil that holds moisture but doesn't become waterlogged. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and sand can provide the necessary drainage and moisture retention. The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH between 5 and 6.5. The plant prefers slightly humid conditions. Mist the foliage with room temperature water and place the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water to increase humidity levels.
Cultivation methods
Selaginella pilifera A. Braun can be grown both indoors and outdoors. It requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. When growing indoors, make sure it receives moderate sunlight and is kept away from extreme temperatures. Flourishing in temperatures between 18-25°C, Selaginella pilifera A. Braun can be grown in containers or hanging baskets.
Watering needs
Watering Selaginella pilifera A. Braun regularly is essential. The plant prefers moist soil that is not waterlogged. If the top of the soil feels dry, then it is time to water the plant. Make sure the drainage of the pot is sufficient to prevent water from accumulating. In indoor environments, mist the plant daily to imitate the tropical conditions that it thrives in.
Fertilization
One should fertilize Selaginella pilifera A. Braun every two to three weeks during the growing season of spring to fall. A balanced fertilizer with a 10-10-10 ratio works best. Pay close attention not to overfertilize as it can burn the delicate foliage. Reduce fertilization during the dormant season of winter and late fall.
Pruning
Pruning Selaginella pilifera A. Braun is not necessary, but it can help to maintain its shape and size. If your plant has overgrown pots or baskets, prune back to a suitable size. To prevent scraggly growth, trim back the tips of the plant's branches. Do not prune more than one-third of plants at once, and prune sparingly.
Propagation of Selaginella pilifera A. Braun
Selaginella pilifera A. Braun is a creeping plant that belongs to the family Selaginellaceae. It is often used in terrariums or as a groundcover due to its delicate foliage and low growth habit. The plant is native to China and prefers moist, well-draining soil with partial to full shade.
Propagation by Division
One common propagation method for Selaginella pilifera A. Braun is by division. This method involves separating the plant into smaller pieces and replanting them. To propagate by division, carefully remove the plant from its pot or garden bed, and gently separate the main stem and roots into several smaller pieces. Each division should have a few stems and a healthy root system. Replant each division in a new pot or garden location, and water thoroughly.
Propagation by Spores
Another propagation method for Selaginella pilifera A. Braun is by spores. This method involves collecting spores from the plant and then growing them into new plants. To propagate by spores, wait until the plant produces spores (usually in the spring or summer) and collect them in a paper bag. Then, sterilize a tray or container and fill it with a well-draining soil mix. Sprinkle the spores on the soil surface and cover with a clear plastic dome or bag to create a humid environment. Keep the tray in a warm, well-lit area, and mist the inside of the dome or bag every few days to maintain moisture. Once the spores begin to germinate and small plants emerge, remove the dome or bag and continue to care for the plants as they grow.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Selaginella pilifera A. Braun can also be propagated by stem cuttings. This method involves taking cuttings from the parent plant and rooting them in a new location. To propagate by stem cuttings, select a healthy stem with several leaves and make a clean cut just below a node. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining soil mix. Water the cutting and keep it in a warm, humid location with indirect light. After a few weeks, the cutting should begin to produce new roots and leaves.
Disease and Pest Management for Selaginella pilifera A. Braun
Selaginella pilifera A. Braun, also known as Spikemoss, is a delicate and beautiful ornamental plant that requires proper care to thrive. One of the essential parts of this care is disease and pest management. Some of the most common diseases and pests that might affect the plant are:
Diseases
1. Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of Selaginella pilifera A. Braun. It usually occurs due to overwatering or poor drainage. You can manage root rot by avoiding overwatering the plant, providing good drainage, and removing infected roots carefully.
2. Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes dark, water-soaked spots on the leaves. It is usually caused by high humidity, poor air circulation, and overwatering. You can manage leaf spot by improving air circulation, reducing humidity, and removing infected leaves.
3. Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that causes a white, powdery substance on the leaves, stems, and flowers. It usually occurs due to high humidity, poor air circulation, and overfertilization. You can manage powdery mildew by reducing humidity, improving air circulation, and avoiding overfertilization.
Pests
1. Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that suck the plant's sap, resulting in yellow, stunted, and distorted leaves. You can manage spider mites by spraying the plant with water, using insecticidal soap, and removing infected leaves.
2. Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, white insects that suck the plant's sap, causing stunted growth, yellowing, and wilting. You can manage mealybugs by washing the leaves with soapy water, using insecticidal soap, and removing infected leaves.
3. Scale Insects: Scale insects are small, circular pests that suck the plant's sap, causing yellowing, stunted growth, and wilted leaves. You can manage scale insects by washing the leaves with soapy water, using insecticidal soap, and removing infected leaves.
Managing the diseases and pests of Selaginella pilifera A. Braun is essential for maintaining the plant's health and beauty. It is always a good practice to inspect the plant regularly and take prompt action if you notice any signs of diseases or pests.
