Arizona Spikemoss: The Desert’s Tiny Green Carpet
Meet Arizona spikemoss (Selaginella arizonica), a fascinating little plant that’s neither moss nor spike, but something wonderfully unique! This native southwestern gem belongs to an ancient group of plants called lycopods, making it more of a living fossil than your typical garden resident. If you’ve ever wondered what those small, cushion-like green patches are in desert landscapes, you might just be looking at this remarkable survivor.
What Exactly Is Arizona Spikemoss?
Despite its common name, Arizona spikemoss isn’t actually a moss at all. It’s a spore-producing vascular plant that’s been around since dinosaurs roamed the earth! This perennial creates dense, mat-like formations with tiny, scale-like leaves that overlap like shingles on a roof. Think of it as nature’s version of a living carpet, perfectly adapted to harsh desert conditions.
Unlike flowering plants, Arizona spikemoss reproduces through spores rather than seeds, and it doesn’t produce flowers or attract pollinators. Instead, it quietly goes about its business of creating textural interest and stabilizing soil in some of the toughest growing conditions imaginable.
Where Does It Call Home?
This southwestern native has carved out its niche across Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas, thriving in the hot, dry conditions that would make many garden plants wilt in defeat. It’s perfectly at home nestled between rocks in desert washes, clinging to canyon walls, and carpeting areas where few other plants dare to grow.
Why Your Garden Might Love Arizona Spikemoss
While Arizona spikemoss won’t wow you with showy blooms, it offers several unique benefits for the right garden setting:
- Ultra-low maintenance: Once established, it thrives on neglect and minimal water
- Textural interest: Provides a unique, fine-textured ground cover unlike anything else
- Erosion control: Forms dense mats that help stabilize soil
- Authentic native appeal: Perfect for creating genuine southwestern desert landscapes
- Conversation starter: This living fossil is sure to intrigue garden visitors
How to Identify Arizona Spikemoss
Spotting Arizona spikemoss is easier once you know what to look for:
- Forms low, dense mats or cushions, typically only a few inches tall
- Tiny, overlapping scale-like leaves that feel almost succulent
- Color ranges from bright green to grayish-green, depending on moisture levels
- No flowers or traditional stems – just dense clusters of small, branching shoots
- Often found growing in rock crevices or sandy, well-draining areas
Is It Right for Your Garden?
Arizona spikemoss shines in specific garden situations. It’s perfect for rock gardens, xeriscapes, and authentic desert landscapes where you want to create that genuine southwestern feel. If you’re gardening in USDA zones 7-10 and have well-draining, sandy or rocky soil, this little survivor could be a great addition.
However, it’s not the plant for you if you prefer lush, green landscapes or live in areas with heavy clay soil and high humidity. Arizona spikemoss is a specialist that performs best when you can replicate its natural desert conditions.
Growing Conditions and Care
The secret to success with Arizona spikemoss lies in understanding its desert origins:
- Soil: Well-draining, sandy, or rocky soil is essential – it cannot tolerate waterlogged conditions
- Water: Drought-tolerant once established; overwatering is the quickest way to kill it
- Light: Full sun to partial shade, though it handles intense desert sun beautifully
- Climate: Thrives in hot, dry conditions typical of zones 7-10
- Maintenance: Virtually none required once established
The Bottom Line
Arizona spikemoss isn’t your typical garden plant, and that’s exactly what makes it special. If you’re creating a water-wise landscape, building a rock garden, or simply want to add an authentic touch of the American Southwest to your outdoor space, this ancient little survivor offers something truly unique. Just remember – less is more when it comes to caring for this desert gem. Give it good drainage, hold back on the water, and watch as this living piece of natural history quietly transforms your landscape with its subtle, enduring beauty.
