Selaginella kraussiana

Krauss' spikemoss

●

Taxonomy

Common Names

Krauss' spikemossAfrican clubmossTrailing spike-moss

Context

nativeRegion

Native to Africa, the Azores, Canary Islands, and Madeira.

usdaZones

9–11

companionPlants

Ferns, Peperomia, Fittonia

culturalUses

Popular as an ornamental groundcover, in terrariums, and as a humidity-loving houseplant.

Care

LightPrefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions; avoid direct sunlight which may scorch the leaves.

WateringKeep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; do not let dry out. Water with lukewarm, non-chlorinated water for best results.

SoilUse a well-draining, peat-based mix rich in organic matter; a combination of peat moss, perlite, and pine bark is ideal.

FertilizerFeed monthly during the growing season with a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer. Reduce feeding in winter.

HumidityRequires high humidity (above 60%). Mist regularly or use a humidity tray; suitable for terrariums.

TemperatureThrives in temperatures between 15–24°C (59–75°F). Avoid chills or sudden temperature drops.

HabitLow-growing, mat-forming creeping plant; often used as ground cover or in terrariums.

Mature SizeTypically 5–15 cm tall, spreading outward indefinitely if conditions allow.

Growth RateFast-growing under warm and humid conditions.

BloomingNon-flowering (lycophyte); reproduces via spores rather than flowers.

DormancyNo true dormancy, but growth slows in cooler or drier conditions.

MethodsDivision, Stem cuttings

DifficultyEasy

Best SeasonSpring to early summer

PruningOccasional trimming to maintain shape or remove dead foliage; responds well to regular pinching.

RepottingRepot annually or when plant outgrows its container, preferably in spring.

Pests & DiseasesSusceptible to root rot if overwatered; may attract spider mites or fungus gnats in dry or overly wet conditions.

ToxicityGenerally considered non-toxic to pets and humans.

No public plants yet.