Origin:
Selaginella rupestris (L.) Spring, commonly known as rock spikemoss, is a species of evergreen plant in the Selaginellaceae family. It is native to North America, specifically found in rocky areas and cliffs in the eastern and central parts of the continent.
Common Names:
The common names for Selaginella rupestris include rock spikemoss, mountain spikemoss, rock selaginella, and ledge spikemoss.
Uses:
Selaginella rupestris has been traditionally used as a medicinal herb, particularly by Native American tribes. It was used to treat various ailments such as diarrhea, coughs, and skin irritations. Today, it is used in the horticulture industry as an ornamental plant, often grown as a groundcover in rock gardens or in between stepping stones.
General Appearance:
The plant has tiny, needle-like leaves that form dense mats. The leaves are a bright green color and have a scale-like appearance. The stems are thin and brown, giving the plant a delicate appearance. Selaginella rupestris can reach up to 3-6 inches in height and can spread up to 12-18 inches wide. In the fall and winter, the plant turns a vibrant reddish color, adding to its ornamental appeal.
Light Requirements
The plant Selaginella rupestris prefers partial shade or filtered light. It can tolerate full sun in areas with cooler temperatures or higher altitudes. When grown indoors, it should be placed near a window with bright, indirect light.
Temperature Requirements
Selaginella rupestris is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. However, it prefers temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C). It can tolerate colder temperatures during the winter months but should not be exposed to freezing temperatures.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It grows best in a soil pH range of 5.0-7.0. The soil should be kept evenly moist but not waterlogged, as the plant is susceptible to root rot. It does not tolerate dry soil for extended periods of time and should not be allowed to dry out completely.
Cultivation Method
Selaginella rupestris (L.) Spring, also known as rock spikemoss, is a slow-growing plant that grows best in moist and well-draining soil. The plant prefers acidic soil and can also grow in clay soil that is amended with organic matter. It is recommendable to plant in a location that receives partial or dappled shade.
Watering Needs
Selaginella rupestris (L.) Spring requires moderate watering. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can cause root rot, while under-watering can cause the plant to dry out and die. When watering, avoid getting water on the leaves as it can lead to fungal diseases. It is advisable to use a watering can or to water the soil directly at the base of the plant.
Fertilization
The Selaginella rupestris (L.) Spring plant requires fertilizer once a month during the growing season. The fertilizer should be high in nitrogen, which promotes green growth. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and not to over-fertilize, which can burn the roots of the plant. Additionally, it is advisable to use a slow-release fertilizer that gradually releases nutrients over time, promoting healthy growth.
Pruning
Pruning Selaginella rupestris (L.) Spring is necessary to maintain its shape, remove dead leaves and stems, and promote new growth. The best time to prune is during the growing season. It is important to use clean and sharp shears to prevent damage to the plant. When pruning, avoid cutting the central stem or removing more than one-third of the plant's foliage at a time. The plant can also be trimmed to maintain its desired height and shape.
Propagation of Selaginella rupestris (L.) Spring
The Selaginella rupestris (L.) Spring, commonly known as the rock spike-moss, is a creeping perennial plant with a unique texture and appearance. It is widely used as a ground cover in gardens and landscapes due to its ability to tolerate dry and harsh conditions. Propagation of this plant is relatively easy, and it can be done through various methods.
Propagation Methods
Division
One of the most common methods of propagating Selaginella rupestris is through division. The plant's creeping habit means that it produces new plants as it grows, which can be separated from the parent plant and replanted. To do this, the plant should be lifted from the ground, and the root system should be gently separated into small sections. These sections can then be replanted in a new location or potted up individually.
Spores
Selaginella rupestris also reproduces through spores, which can be collected and sown during the spring or early summer. To collect spores, the plant should be allowed to mature and produce spores, which are small, brown, and located on the underside of the leaves. To sow the spores, a clean and sterile growing medium should be used, and the spores should be sprinkled on top of the soil. The container should then be covered with plastic to create a humid environment and placed in a well-lit area. The spores will germinate in one to two months.
Cuttings
Propagation of Selaginella rupestris can also be done through stem cuttings, although this method is not as common. To do this, a healthy stem should be selected, and a 3-4 inch cutting should be taken with a sterilized sharp knife. The leaves should then be removed from the lower half of the stem, and the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone. The cutting should be planted in a container filled with a well-draining growing medium and kept in a high humidity environment until rooted.
Overall, Selaginella rupestris is an easy plant to propagate and can be successfully propagated through division, spores, and cuttings.
Disease and Pest Management for Selaginella rupestris
Selaginella rupestris, commonly known as rock spikemoss, is a hardy plant that is resistant to many pests and diseases. However, it can still be affected by some common problems that can be easily managed with proper care and attention.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that can affect Selaginella rupestris is root rot. This can be caused by overwatering or poor drainage, leading to fungal growth and eventual decay of the roots. To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil is well-drained and avoid watering excessively. If root rot is already present, it may be necessary to repot the plant into fresh soil and prune damaged roots.
Another disease to watch out for is leaf spot. This is caused by a fungal infection that can lead to yellow or brown spots on the leaves. To manage leaf spot, ensure that the plant is not overcrowded and that there is good air circulation. Infected leaves should be removed and destroyed.
Common Pests
Selaginella rupestris is not typically affected by many pests, but occasionally, mealybugs or spider mites can become a problem. Mealybugs are small, white, cottony insects that can appear on the leaves and stems of the plant. Spider mites can cause damage to the leaves and can be seen as tiny red or brown spots.
To manage mealybugs and spider mites, wipe down the plant with a solution of water and mild soap, or use an insecticidal soap. If the infestation is severe, it may be necessary to use a systemic insecticide.
Overall, Selaginella rupestris is a low-maintenance plant that is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. By providing proper drainage, avoiding overcrowding, and monitoring for any potential problems, it is possible to keep this plant healthy and happy for years to come.
