Selaginella Care — Spikemoss & Resurrection Plant Indoor Guide

Selaginella species range from delicate fern-like spikemoss to the dramatic resurrection plant. Learn how to grow these ancient moisture-loving plants in terrariums and humid indoor conditions. This guide covers everything you need to know about this topic, including common causes, step-by-step solutions, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Here are the key things to understand: Selaginella is not a true fern or moss but a lycophyte — one of the oldest plant lineages dating back 400 million years. Popular indoor species include S. kraussiana (trailing spikemoss), S. uncinata (peacock fern), and S. lepidophylla (resurrection plant). Most Selaginella need consistently moist soil and high humidity above 60% to thrive. S. lepidophylla is unique — it curls into a brown ball when dry and unfurls green when watered. Selaginella make excellent terrarium plants due to their humidity requirements and small size. Understanding these fundamentals will help you diagnose and resolve this issue more effectively.

The most common reasons this occurs include: Ancient plant lineage evolved before flowers, seeds, or true leaves — they reproduce by spores. High humidity needs stem from their thin leaf-like structures (microphylls) that lose moisture rapidly. S. lepidophylla's resurrection ability is an adaptation to extreme drought in Mexican deserts. Forest-dwelling species like S. kraussiana need constant moisture mimicking their tropical understory habitat. Identifying the root cause is the first step toward finding the right solution.

To resolve this, follow these recommended steps: For tropical species (kraussiana, uncinata), maintain constantly moist soil and 60%+ humidity. Grow in a terrarium or closed container for the easiest humidity management. For resurrection plant, alternate between soaking in water and allowing to dry completely. Provide low to medium indirect light — direct sun is too intense for most species. Use a peat-based soil mix that retains moisture without becoming waterlogged. If these steps do not resolve the issue, consider consulting additional resources or a qualified professional.

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