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Emm's Plant House

Selaginella uncinata (Peacock Spike Moss)

Selaginella uncinata (Peacock Spike Moss)

£12.00 GBP
£12.00 GBP
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Taxes included.

Selaginella uncinata, commonly known as Peacock Spike Moss, is a stunning tropical plant admired for its iridescent blue-green foliage that shimmers under light. Native to subtropical regions of China, this moss-like plant thrives in humid, shaded environments and makes an exceptional choice for terrariums, vivariums, and indoor tropical displays.

  • Full Botanical Name: Selaginella uncinata
  • Common Names: Peacock Spike Moss, Blue Spike Moss, Peacock Fern
  • Country and/or Region of Origin: China and Southeast Asia
  • Growing Conditions in Native Habitat: Found in shaded, moist forest floors and rocky crevices with consistently high humidity and cool temperatures

Care Guide

  • Care Guide:
  • Light: Prefers low to medium indirect light; avoid direct sunlight which can scorch delicate fronds
  • Ideal Room: Terrarium, bathroom, or any space with consistent humidity
  • Feeding: Use a very diluted liquid houseplant fertilizer every 6–8 weeks during the growing season
  • Humidity: Very high (70–90%); essential for healthy growth
  • Ideal Temperature: 18–25°C (65–77°F); sensitive to cold drafts
  • Watering: Keep soil evenly moist at all times; do not allow to dry out completely
  • Pet/Child Safe: Non-toxic — Selaginella species are considered safe for cats, dogs, and humans. However, as individual sensitivities can vary, avoid ingestion and contact with reptiles or amphibians’ delicate skin to prevent potential irritation.
  • Soil Type: Moist, humus-rich mix with good aeration (peat, coco coir, and perlite blend)
  • Propagation: Division or stem cuttings placed in moist substrate
  • Eventual Height and Spread: 5–10 cm tall; spreads up to 30 cm wide
  • Growth Rate: Moderate; faster in stable humidity
  • Pests and Treatment: Rare; may attract fungus gnats in overly damp conditions—improve airflow and allow topsoil to dry slightly between waterings
  • Repotting: Every 1–2 years; prefers shallow, wide containers
  • Pruning: Trim overgrown sections to maintain compact form
  • Air Purification: Good; contributes to higher humidity and cleaner air
  • Folklore: Symbolizes tranquility, regeneration, and protection—often used in feng shui for its “living moss” energy
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