Krauss's Clubmoss
Selaginella kraussiana · Selaginellaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant krauss's clubmoss: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Evergreen, fine and delicate
- Adult size
- 10 to 20 cm in height, creeping habit
- Growth rate
- Slow to moderate
- Hardiness
- Frost-tender, indoor or greenhouse plant
- Origin
- South Africa
- Soil type
- Moist, well-draining, rich in organic matter
- Exposure
- Indirect light, no direct sunlight
Care
Watering
Keep the substrate consistently moist without stagnant water. Water regularly, ideally with soft or filtered water. Selaginella dreads dry periods and appreciates a humid environment; mist the foliage several times a week indoors.
Light and Exposure
Place your plant in indirect light, away from direct sun rays which would scorch its delicate foliage. It tolerates semi-shade well and thrives in a bright room without exposure to windows in summer.
Substrate and Drainage
Use a light, porous mix made of peat, sphagnum moss, or leaf mold mixed with perlite. Drainage should be good while maintaining constant moisture, which is essential for the well-being of this delicate fern.
Fertilization
Apply diluted, balanced fertilizer every two months during the growing season (spring-summer). A low concentration is sufficient as selaginella is not a heavy feeder; excessive application risks burning the fine roots.
Pruning and Cleaning
No strict pruning is necessary. Simply remove dead or damaged fronds by pinching them gently. Lightly dust the foliage with a damp brush to preserve its fine, airy appearance.
Common Problems and Prevention
Watch for spider mites in overly dry conditions and occasional aphids. Excess water promotes root rot; ensure good drainage. Regular misting and good ventilation prevent most issues.
Did you know?
The Florist's Selaginella is the favorite plant for terrariums and Victorian fern gardens: in the 19th century, fern fever in England popularized this species for its exceptional delicacy. Interestingly, selaginellas are not true ferns: they are ancient plants from the Lycopodiophyta group, distant relatives of the oldest terrestrial plants, which explains their archaic and fragile appearance.
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
- Northern selaginellaSelaginella rupestris
- Selaginella helveticaSelaginella helvetica
- Pedunculate oakQuercus robur
- CamelliaCamellia japonica
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.