Toothed-leaved Clubmoss
Selaginella denticulata · Selaginellaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant toothed-leaved clubmoss: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Evergreen, very fine and delicate
- Mature size
- 10 to 30 cm tall, spreading and branched habit
- Growth
- Slow to moderate
- Hardiness
- Not very hardy, mild climate (minimum 10–15 °C)
- Origin
- Humid tropical and subtropical regions
- Soil type
- Moist and well-draining potting soil, rich in organic matter
Care
Regular watering and humid atmosphere
Selaginella denticulata hates dryness and prefers constantly moist substrate, never waterlogged. Water regularly with soft water (rainwater or filtered) and maintain air humidity through frequent misting or by placing the pot on a tray filled with damp clay pellets. In winter, reduce watering slightly but never let the soil dry out completely.
Bright, indirect light
Position your selaginella in bright but indirect light, away from direct sun rays which would scorch its fragile foliage. It appreciates semi-shaded environments and tolerates even low light. A north or east-facing window filtered by sheer curtains is ideal for this small fern.
Aerated, organic-rich soil
Use a light potting mix based on sphagnum, peat or coco coir, enriched with perlite or vermiculite to ensure good aeration. Always ensure the pot has good drainage to prevent root suffocation, while maintaining substrate moisture.
Moderate feeding during growing season
Fertilize with a highly diluted balanced fertilizer (NPK 8-8-8 type) every 3 to 4 weeks during spring and summer. In autumn and winter, stop fertilizing. Avoid overdosing as this could burn the delicate tissues of this small plant.
Removal of damaged fronds
Selaginella doesn't require regular pruning. Simply remove dead, dried or damaged parts gently with small clean scissors. Pinch back the tips lightly if you wish to encourage branching, but without excess.
Prevention of pests and rot
Watch for spider mites and whiteflies if air is too dry. A humid and well-ventilated environment limits these issues. Root rot occurs if drainage is poor; ensure water drains well and the substrate doesn't become waterlogged.
Did you know?
Selaginella denticulata, like all selaginellas, is a living relic from the Devonian period (400 million years ago). These 'primitive ferns' are among the oldest land plants and possess a unique spore-dispersal mechanism triggered by a spring sensitive to humidity called an elator. Botanists are also fascinated by their extraordinary desiccation tolerance: some species can survive completely dried out for years and return to life upon contact with water.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Selaginella selaginoidesSelaginella selaginoides
- Krauss's ClubmossSelaginella kraussiana
- Northern selaginellaSelaginella rupestris
- Selaginella helveticaSelaginella helvetica
- Pedunculate oakQuercus robur
- CamelliaCamellia japonica
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.