Selaginella Plana
$99.00
Out of stock
A Geometric Wonder of the Primordial Forest
Step into a world of mesmerizing symmetry with the Selaginella plana, a breathtaking species that brings the structured elegance of ancient landscapes into the modern home. Often called the "Asian Spikemoss," this variety is a masterclass in botanical architecture, featuring fan-shaped fronds that arrange themselves in a distinct, flattened plane. Its lush, emerald-green foliage possesses a crisp, matte finish, with each branchlet meticulously layered to create a rhythmic, fern-like tapestry. It is an essential choice for the collector who appreciates the beauty of mathematical precision in nature, offering a dense and sprawling greenery that feels both prehistoric and refreshingly tidy.
Beyond its striking geometry, the Selaginella plana serves as a versatile living carpet, perfect for transforming a simple terrarium or a shaded conservatory into a verdant sanctuary. Its upright yet spreading habit and delicate, feathery texture provide a unique structural presence that thrives in the soft, misty air of a curated enclosure. For the enthusiast seeking a resilient "living fossil" that offers a sense of calm and order to a tropical collection, this variety is an unparalleled find. Bring home the Selaginella plana and let its layered, emerald canopy transform your space into a gallery of timeless, woodland grace.
Growth Habit: A vigorous and clumping perennial that is distinguished by its semi-upright, "plana" (flat) growth habit. Unlike its creeping cousins, this species produces sturdy, rising stems that branch out into wide, horizontal tiers of foliage. It spreads steadily to form a lush, dense thicket, making it a premier choice for creating a "forest floor" effect in large terrariums or as a sophisticated, mounded accent in high-humidity displays.
Exotic Foliage: This species is prized for its exceptional structural regularity. The fronds are composed of tiny, scale-like leaves arranged in four distinct rows along the branches, creating a flattened, two-dimensional appearance. The foliage is a consistent, deep jade green that maintains its vibrancy year-round. Its texture is soft yet surprisingly durable, offering a dense, mossy look that captures humidity within its intricate layers.
Light & Color: To maintain its rich green hue and compact, symmetrical form, Selaginella plana thrives in medium to bright, indirect light. While it is highly adaptable to the lower light levels of the jungle floor, providing bright, filtered light will result in denser growth and stronger stems. Direct afternoon sun must be avoided at all costs, as it will quickly parch the delicate, thin-walled leaves and turn the tips brown.
Care & Maintenance: This is a humidity-loving species that performs best when levels are kept consistently above 60-70%. It is a "thirstier" botanical that prefers a substrate that stays consistently moist; the root system should never be allowed to dry out completely. It flourishes in a well-aerated, moisture-retentive medium like a blend of peat, perlite, and chopped sphagnum moss. To keep the foliage lush and avoid mineral buildup, watering with distilled, RO, or rainwater is highly recommended.
Safety Note: One of the greatest advantages of the Selaginella family is that they are generally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs. This makes the Selaginella plana a perfect, worry-free choice for pet owners. However, because it craves stable humidity and a draft-free environment, it is most successful when grown in a glass enclosure or a dedicated plant room where its prehistoric beauty can thrive undisturbed.
