Origin
Selaginella plana (Desv. ex Poir.) Hieron., commonly known as the flatclub moss or as Selaginella platyphylla in some regions, is a species of plant in the family Selaginellaceae. It is native to South America, specifically Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay.
Common Names
The Selaginella plana is known by a variety of common names depending on the region. In Brazil it is known as Barba de velho, meaning "old man's beard," or Musgo do Evangelho, meaning "gospel moss." In Argentina, it is referred to as "pata de leon," or "lion's paw."
Uses
Selaginella plana is often used for ornamental purposes, particularly in terrariums or vivariums. Its unique, fern-like appearance adds a distinctive texture to any plant arrangement. It is also used in traditional medicine in some cultures, where it is believed to have anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties.
General Appearance
The Selaginella plana is a small, evergreen plant that typically grows to be about 6-8 centimeters in height. It has thin, wiry stems that are covered in small, scale-like leaves. These leaves are a vibrant green color and are arranged in an alternating pattern along the stem. The plant produces spores for reproduction, which are located on the undersides of its leaves. When mature, these spores release a fine powder that can be seen on the plant and surrounding surfaces.
Growth Conditions for Selaginella plana
Selaginella plana, also known as the flatland spikemoss, is a delicate fern-like plant that requires specific growth conditions to thrive. Below are the key growth conditions for Selaginella plana.
Light Requirements
Selaginella plana requires medium to high levels of light for optimal growth. It is best grown in areas where it can receive at least partial sunlight, such as near a window or in a well-lit room. However, it must be protected from direct afternoon sunlight as it can cause damage to the plant.
Temperature Requirements
Another key growth condition for Selaginella plana is temperature. This plant thrives in warm, moist environments with temperatures ranging between 18°C to 25°C. It is important to note that Selaginella plana cannot tolerate sudden temperature drops or extreme heat.
Soil Requirements
Selaginella plana prefers a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter, such as peat moss. It also requires a soil pH that is slightly acidic to neutral, between 6.0 to 7.0. A mix of soil, sand, and peat moss is ideal for the flatland spikemoss.
Humidity Requirements
The flatland spikemoss requires high humidity levels to grow successfully. The ideal humidity range is between 50% to 70%. Artificial humidifiers or regular misting can help maintain the required humidity levels.
Watering Requirements
Selaginella plana is a delicate plant that requires consistent moisture levels. However, overwatering can cause root rot and ultimately lead to plant death. It is recommended to water the plant once a week, keeping the soil moist but not saturated. It is also important to allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Overall, providing the correct growth conditions for Selaginella plana is essential to ensure healthy growth and vitality of the plant.
Cultivation of Selaginella plana
Selaginella plana is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow indoors or outdoors. It can also be grown in pots or placed in a terrarium. This plant thrives in part to full shade and requires cool and humid conditions. It prefers a rich, well-draining soil that is kept on the moist side.
Watering Needs of Selaginella plana
Proper watering is critical for the health of Selaginella plana. The soil should be kept consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Overwatering can cause root rot, which can lead to the death of the plant. The easiest way to ensure that the soil is adequately hydrated is to use a pot with drainage holes and insert the container in a tray or saucer filled with water. Alternatively, the soil can be misted frequently using a spray bottle.
Fertilization of Selaginella plana
Selaginella plana requires light fertilization once a month during the growing season. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength, to avoid burning the plant's roots. It is advisable to stop fertilizing the plant during the winter months or when the plant enters its dormant phase.
Pruning Selaginella plana
There is no need to prune Selaginella plana as its growth is relatively slow. However, it is advisable to remove any dry or yellow leaves with sterilized pruning shears or scissors. Doing so will promote air circulation and prevent mold or fungal growth.
Propagation Methods of Selaginella plana (Desv. ex Poir.) Hieron.
Selaginella plana (Desv. ex Poir.) Hieron., commonly known as the Spike Selaginella, is a low-growing evergreen plant that belongs to the family Selaginellaceae. It is an ornamental plant that is a native of South and Central America. Propagation is an essential method of increasing the number of Selaginella plants for planting or sale. The following are the different methods of propagating Selaginella plana.
Division Method
The division method is one of the effective ways of propagating Selaginella plana. It involves dividing the plant's clumps or rhizomes into smaller sections and planting them in a suitable growing medium. This method is best done during late winter or early spring when the plant is in its growing stage. Before division, clean the sections with a sterilized knife or scissors to prevent fungal or bacterial infections. Place the divided sections in a well-draining soil mixture, keep them warm and moist, and in a bright, indirect light location. The plant will eventually develop roots and start growing leaves.
Spore Method
Selaginella plana can also be propagated using the spore method. This method involves collecting the plant's spores, which are produced in specialized spore cases beneath the leaves. The spores are tiny and can be collected by gently tapping the plant's fronds over a piece of paper. Spread the spores evenly on top of a well-draining potting mixture. Keep the soil mixture moist and in a bright, indirect light location. In a few weeks, the spores will develop into small plantlets that can be transplanted into individual pots.
Stem Cuttings Method
One of the effective ways of propagating Selaginella plana is through stem cuttings. Cuttings are taken from the plant's healthy stems and planted in a suitable growing medium. Ensure the cuttings that are at least 3 inches long, include at least two leaves, and cut using a sterilized knife or scissors. Place the cuttings in a well-draining soil mixture, keep them moist and warm and in a bright, indirect light location. Use a misting bottle to water and maintain humidity levels around the cuttings. After about four weeks, the stem cuttings will grow roots and start producing new leaves.
In conclusion, propagation is an essential method of increasing the number of Selaginella plants. The three methods of propagation discussed above, division, spore, and stem cuttings, are effective ways of propagating Selaginella plana. When propagating this plant, it is vital to maintain high humidity levels, keep the soil moist, and provide adequate lighting conditions to encourage root and leaf development.
Disease Management
Selaginella plana is generally a healthy plant. However, it can be attacked by fungal diseases, like leaf spot and root rot if the environmental conditions are not adequately controlled.
Leaf Spot: This fungal disease initially occurs as brown spots on the leaf, making the tissue necrotic, and eventually causing the whole leaf to die. To manage this disease, the affected plants must be removed, and a high-quality fungicide must be applied.
Root Rot: Overwatering, poor drainage, and compact soil cause root rot in Selaginella plana. Fusarium, Pythium, and Phytophthora fungi are the primary culprits. The symptoms of this disease include stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and soft, brownish-black roots. To avoid root rot, the plant must be grown in well-draining soil, and watering should be limited.
Pest Management
Selaginella plana is also prone to attack by pests like mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. They sap out the plant's nutrients and weaken its structure.
Mealybugs: These pests appear as a white and cottony mass on the surface of leaves and roots. They suck plant juices and produce honeydew that promotes the growth of sooty mold. Regularly wiping the affected areas with alcohol-soaked cotton and applying neem oil to the foliage can control mealybugs.
Spider Mites: These tiny insects can be identified by the light-colored stippling on the foliage. They cause the plant to appear dull, yellowish, and withered. To get rid of spider mites, spraying the plant with a mixture of water and soap can be effective.
Scale insects: These are oval-shaped, flat insects that attach themselves to the plant's surface and suck out its sap. They can cause yellowing, stunted growth, and defoliation. Applying neem oil or rubbing alcohol to the foliage can control these pests.
Keeping the plant healthy by using organic fertilizers, maintaining optimal temperature and humidity, and properly watering the plant can also prevent the occurrence of pest infestations.
