Selaginella uncinata - Peacock Spike Moss

This type of moss will bring the majesty of the peacock to your terrarium or houseplant display, with its bright turquoise and green foliage, whose fronds end in delicate points reminiscent of the shape of peacock feathers. This plant works well in a terrarium, where it will get plenty of moisture and the humidity levels will stay high enough, as well as its roots being consistently moist without being waterlogged. Use this eyecatching moss to add colour and shape to your terrarium or bathroom and it will repay your care with more feather-like foliage!

Scientific Name
Selaginella uncinata (little club moss, hooked at the end)

Common Name
Peacock Moss, Blue Spike Moss, Rainbow Moss, Peacock Spike Moss

Origin
Native to Southern China

Light
Place this plant in bright, indirect light; it will get scorched it it gets too much sun!

Water
This plant loves to be consistently moist. It is a type of moss, so try and keep its roots happy and hydrated. Bottom-watering works well here, as too much water in the foliage can lead to rot.

Humidity
This plant loves high humidity, and will benefit from a closed, terrarium environment or from a humidity tray.

Soil
In a terrarium, ensure you have well-draining soil which will suit the closed ecosystem. In a pot, use a moisture retentive soil; something designed for ferns should work well here. Repot when the plant crowds the pot too much; in a terrarium, keep it trimmed to fit in the enclosed space.

Food
This plant grows well without a fertiliser; fresh soil or a repot once a year will give it enough nutrition.

Temperature
Average temperatures of 18-30°C are fine; make sure it doesn't get colder than 15°C in winter.

Pet-safe
Yes, but too much nibbling won't be good for pets, small humans or the plant!

Sprouts Top Tips
The key to caring for this plant is maintaining high humidity. A terrarium or enclosed area will help with this. Ensure that its soil remains evenly moist, especially when grown in a open environment, where it will dry out much quicker.