Selaginella helvetica
Selaginella helvetica · Selaginellaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant selaginella helvetica: 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
- Adult size
- 5 to 15 cm in height, spreading cushion-like form
- Growth
- Very slow
- Hardiness
- Excellent, down to -20 °C
- Origin
- Alps and European mountains
- Soil type
- Well-draining, rich in organic matter, slightly moist
- Exposure
- Partial shade to shade, significant humidity
Care
Watering
Keep the substrate moist but not waterlogged. Mist the fine foliage regularly to recreate the humid atmosphere of mountain zones. In winter, reduce watering slightly but never let the soil dry out completely.
Light and exposure
Prefer partial shade or bright shade. Avoid direct sun which quickly dries out the delicate foliage. A spot near a window without direct rays is ideal for indoor cultivation.
Soil and substrate
Use a well-draining mixture rich in organic matter: peat, fine bark and sand. Ensure water drains well to prevent root rot, while maintaining a certain moisture level.
Fertilizer
Feed moderately with diluted fertilizer during the growing season (spring-summer), once a month. Choose a low-nitrogen formula to maintain a compact, natural form.
Pruning and cleaning
No formal pruning is necessary. Simply remove any dry or damaged fronds carefully. This Selaginella should keep its natural small cushion-like form.
Diseases and pests
Watch for spider mites in overly dry conditions. Excess humidity without ventilation can encourage mold. Ensure gentle air circulation and avoid confined, waterlogged environments.
Did you know?
Swiss Selaginella is a primitive plant belonging to an ancient group that has thrived for over 400 million years, long before true ferns appeared. Its tiny leaves curl up on themselves during extreme droughts, allowing it to survive in a desiccated state for weeks on end in alpine scree, then return to life as soon as humidity returns.
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
- Toothed-leaved ClubmossSelaginella denticulata
- Krauss's ClubmossSelaginella kraussiana
- Northern selaginellaSelaginella rupestris
- Pedunculate oakQuercus robur
- CamelliaCamellia japonica
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.