Red Spikemoss
(Selaginella erythropus)
Red Spikemoss (Selaginella erythropus)
/
/

Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz
CC BY-SA 4.0
Image By:
Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz
Recorded By:
Copyright:
CC BY-SA 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz | License Type: CC BY-SA 4.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/zero/1.0/deed.en | Uploader: Kenraiz | Publisher: Wikimedia Commons |

















Estimated Native Range
Summary
Selaginella erythropus, commonly known as Red Spikemoss, is an evergreen perennial herb native to the tropical rainforests of Central and South America. It typically grows to a height of 1 foot and a width of 0.3-0.6 feet. This species is characterized by its striking foliage, with the topside of the leaves being a vibrant green and the undersides displaying a bright, ruby red color. Red Spikemoss is a member of the Selaginellaceae family and, like ferns, reproduces via spores.
Red Spikemoss is valued for its unique foliage and is often used in terrariums, as a ground cover in shaded gardens, or in hanging baskets. It thrives in humid conditions and requires consistently moist soil, making it a suitable choice for areas with high rainfall or for gardeners who can provide regular watering. It prefers part shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler, moist climates. While it is relatively low-maintenance, it can suffer from root rot if overwatered or if the soil does not drain well. It is also sensitive to cold and must be protected from frost.CC BY-SA 4.0
Red Spikemoss is valued for its unique foliage and is often used in terrariums, as a ground cover in shaded gardens, or in hanging baskets. It thrives in humid conditions and requires consistently moist soil, making it a suitable choice for areas with high rainfall or for gardeners who can provide regular watering. It prefers part shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler, moist climates. While it is relatively low-maintenance, it can suffer from root rot if overwatered or if the soil does not drain well. It is also sensitive to cold and must be protected from frost.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Herb
- Height: 0.5-0.8 feet
- Width: 0.3-0.6 feet
- Growth Rate: Slow
- Flower Color: N/A
- Flowering Season: Non-Flowering
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Part Shade
- Water: High
- Drainage: Medium
Common Uses
Low Maintenance
Natural Habitat
Native to the tropical rainforests of Central and South America
Other Names
Common Names: Ruby Red Club Moss
Scientific Names: , Selaginella erythropus, Selaginella setosa, Lycopodioides erythropus, Lycopodium erythropus, Selaginella erythropus var. minor, Selaginella erythropus var. setosa, Selaginella pitcheriana,
GBIF Accepted Name: Selaginella erythropus (Mart.) Spring