Selaginella apoda (Meadow Spikemoss) and its relatives form lush mats of leafy stems, perfect for humid, shaded spaces like terrariums or bottle gardens. One species, S. lepidophylla, is famous for curling into a tight ball when dry and reviving with water earning it the name “Resurrection Plant.
Read MorePlant Care Essentials:
Plant Profile:
- Scientific Name: Selaginella apoda
- Size: 2–4inches
- Plant Family: Selaginellaceae (Spikemoss family)
- Temperature Tolerance: ~13–26 °C
- Drought Tolerant: No
- Poisonous To Humans: No
- Plant Type: Terrarium
- Light Requirements: Bright indirect or filtered light
- Fruits: Yes
- Tropical: No
- Indoor: Yes
- Plant Origin: Eastern North America (S. apoda), Mexico & South America (S. pallescens), Chihuahuan Desert (S. lepidophylla)
- Growth Rate: Rapid
- Poisonous To Pets: No
- Edible Fruit: No
Care Instructions:
These spikemosses spread quickly to form vivid green carpets under high humidity. S. apoda boasts fine, dense foliage near the ground, while S. pallescens forms upright branching fronds and grows taller. S. lepidophylla curls up when dry and unfurls beautifully when rehydrated. All avoid direct sunlight, preferring filtered light and consistent moisture for bright, compact growth.
Light
Provide bright indirect or dappled light—never direct sun, which can burn fronds.
Water
Keep soil consistently moist year-round. Water when surface feels just slightly dry; never allow the moss to dry out completely.
Soil
Use a humus-rich, well-draining mix—peat or coco-coir with perlite or fine bark. Soil should retain moisture without becoming waterlogged.
Temperature
Maintain cool to moderate indoor temperatures (13–26 °C). Avoid drafts or extreme heat. S. lepidophylla handles dry spells but avoids cold, damp conditions.
Humidity
High humidity (70–90%) is essential. Mist regularly, use a humidifier, or grow in a terrarium or bottle garden for best results.
Fertilizer
Feed monthly during the growing season with a very diluted balanced liquid fertilizer. Avoid overfeeding.
Best Placement Ideas
- As ground cover in closed terrariums or plant cases
- In miniature glass gardens or humidity trays
- In greenhouse underplanting or beside ferns and orchids
- On moist shady corners of terrariums or bottles
Common Issues
- Drooping or browning from low humidity
- Leaf curling or crispy tips due to dryness or chlorine in water
- Mold or rot if air circulation is poor or soil too wet
- Pale or sparse growth if light is too low
Things to Watch Out For
- Never let soil completely dry—especially S. apoda
- Use distilled or rainwater to avoid mineral buildup
- Clean leaf surfaces gently to prevent dust or algae
- Monitor ventilation and humidity in enclosed displays
Propagation Tips
Divide mats or take stem cuttings in spring or summer. Press them gently into moist substrate—roots will form quickly. S. lepidophylla can even be revived after long dry spells by soaking.
Maintenance Tips
Trim back leggy or yellowed areas to encourage fresh growth. Repot or refresh substrate every 1–2 years. In terrariums, occasionally open for airflow to prevent mold or algae.
Did You Know?
S. apoda has one of the shortest life cycles in its group, with plants completing a full growth cycle in as little as three months!
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