Krauss's clubmoss (Selaginella kraussiana)
Also known as: Mat spikemoss, Trailing spikemoss
Krauss's clubmoss is an evergreen perennial known for its dense, fern-like foliage. In warmer climates, it serves well as a ground cover, while in cooler regions, it's popular as a houseplant. This plant is native to Africa and the Azores.
In This Article
Attributes of Krauss's clubmoss
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Herb
Plant Height
5 cm to 10 cm
Spread
30 cm to 45 cm
Leaf Color
Green
Flower Size
N/A (does not produce true flowers, reproduces via spores)
Flower Color
N/A
Images of Krauss's clubmoss
Quickly Identify Krauss's clubmoss
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Mat-forming growth habit
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Lacey fern-like foliage
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Creeping stems with small, scale-like leaves
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Low height, not exceeding 1 inch (2.5 cm)
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Effective spread reaching up to 1 foot (30 cm) in width
Scientific Classification of Krauss's clubmoss
Phylum
Vascular plants
Class
Club mosses
Order
Selaginellales
Family
Spike-moss
Genus
Spikemosses
Species
Krauss's clubmoss
Planting and Growing of Krauss's clubmoss
Care Difficulty
Easy
Watering Schedule
Every 12 days
Sunlight Requirements
Partial sun
Sunshine Duration
4-6 hours
Ideal Temperature
60-75℉
Soil Type
Potting Mix, Peat Mix
Soil pH
6.5-7.5
Fertilizer Type
Balanced
Pruning Season
Spring, Summer
Pruning Area
Branches, Leaves
Pruning Frequency
2 times a year
Repotting Season
Spring
Pot Type
Plastic, Ceramic
How to Water Krauss's clubmoss?
For Selaginella kraussiana, it's essential to maintain consistently moist soil without waterlogging. Water until the soil is thoroughly moist, typically around 250 ml, but ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
What are the symptoms of an underwatered Krauss's clubmoss?
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What should I do if my Krauss's clubmoss is not getting enough water?
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What are the symptoms of an overwatered Krauss's clubmoss?
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How to save an overwatered Krauss's clubmoss?
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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Krauss's clubmoss?
Selaginella kraussiana prefers partial sun to full shade, ideally receiving indirect light. This range allows it to maintain its vibrant color and healthy structure, preventing stress-related issues.
More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→
What kind of light does Selaginella kraussiana need?
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How can I achieve ideal lighting for Selaginella kraussiana?
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What happens if Selaginella kraussiana receives ideal lighting?
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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Krauss's clubmoss?
Selaginella kraussiana thrives best in temperatures ranging from 60°F to 75°F. This range ensures that the plant can perform photosynthesis efficiently and maintain healthy growth. Keeping the temperature within this range mimics the natural environment of the plant, promoting optimal physiological processes.
What Soil is Best for Krauss's clubmoss?
Selaginella kraussiana prefers well-drained soil to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. This type of soil ensures that excess water is efficiently evacuated, supporting healthy growth. This plant thrives in moisture-retentive soils, as it enjoys a humid environment. Maintaining soil moisture without waterlogging allows the plant to absorb the necessary nutrients efficiently. A soil rich in organic matter provides essential nutrients for Selaginella kraussiana, promoting lush foliage and robust growth. Organic composts or fertilizers can enhance soil nutrient content.
How to Fertilize Krauss's clubmoss?
Selaginella kraussiana is not a heavy feeder, and it is vital to avoid over-fertilization. When applying liquid fertilizer, use a diluted solution at half-strength to provide just the right nutrients without overwhelming the plant.
How to Prune Krauss's clubmoss?
Start by identifying any dead or yellowing foliage, which can be removed to improve the plant's appearance. Also, look for any stems that are growing excessively long or appear sparse. Carefully trim away the identified sections using your clean, sharp tool. Make cuts at a 45-degree angle close to the base of the unwanted stems or leaves, ensuring you do not damage the healthy parts of the plant. Trim back any leggy or out-of-place growth to promote bushier and more compact growth. This will help your plant maintain a manageable size and enhance its ornamental appeal. After pruning, keep an eye on your Selaginella kraussiana for signs of stress, such as wilting or discoloration. Provide extra care and optimal conditions to help your plant recover swiftly.
More About Pruning Techniques→
How to Propagate Krauss's clubmoss plant?
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Select a healthy parent plant and cut 3–4 inch sections with at least two leaves using sharp pruning shears. Remove the lower leaves to prevent them from sitting in water or soil, which can lead to rot.
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Dip the cut end into rooting hormone to enhance root development, then plant the cuttings in a pot filled with moist potting mix. Ensure each cutting stands upright and is deep enough to support itself.
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Place the potted cuttings in a warm and bright location, avoiding direct sunlight. Maintain high humidity by covering the pot with a clear plastic bag, ensuring the plastic does not touch the cuttings.
How to Repot Krauss's clubmoss plant?
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Selaginella kraussiana shows repotting readiness when it outgrows its pot or roots protrude from the bottom. Repotting is best carried out when growth begins in spring or continues actively into summer. These seasons offer the optimal conditions for adaptation and growth.
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Select a pot that is one size larger than the current one and ensure it has ample drainage holes. A wider rather than deeper pot suits Selaginella kraussiana, as it has a more surface spread root system. This allows for better root expansion and prevents waterlogging, which could cause root rot.
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Utilize a well-draining, rich organic soil mix, combining peat, bark, and perlite. This mix mimics the native habitat of Selaginella kraussiana by allowing for moisture retention while ensuring excess water drains quickly. This prevents root decay and promotes healthy growth.
