Dwarf Spikemoss: Hawaii’s Tiny Native Ground Cover Gem
Meet the dwarf spikemoss (Selaginella arbuscula), a charming little Hawaiian native that’s not actually a moss at all! This petite plant, also known by its Hawaiian name lepelepe a moa, belongs to an ancient group of plants called spikemosses or lycopods that have been around since before dinosaurs roamed the earth.
What Exactly Is Dwarf Spikemoss?
Don’t let the name fool you – dwarf spikemoss isn’t a true moss, but rather a fascinating primitive plant that reproduces through spores instead of seeds or flowers. Think of it as nature’s living fossil! This delicate perennial creates intricate, branching patterns with tiny scale-like leaves that give it an almost lace-like appearance.
As a forb (basically a soft-stemmed plant without woody growth), dwarf spikemoss stays low to the ground and spreads to form attractive carpets of green. It’s like having a miniature prehistoric forest right in your garden!
Where Does It Call Home?
Selaginella arbuscula is exclusively native to the Hawaiian Islands, making it a true island endemic. You won’t find this little beauty growing wild anywhere else in the world – it’s Hawaii’s very own botanical treasure.
Important Conservation Note
Here’s something crucial to know: dwarf spikemoss has a conservation status of S3S4, which suggests it may face some population pressures in the wild. If you’re considering adding this native Hawaiian plant to your collection, please ensure you source it responsibly from reputable native plant nurseries that propagate their own stock rather than wild-collecting.
Is It Right for Your Garden?
If you’re gardening in USDA zones 10-11 (or have a greenhouse), dwarf spikemoss can be a wonderful addition to your landscape. Here’s what makes it special:
- Creates beautiful, textural ground cover in shaded areas
- Perfect for rock gardens and naturalistic plantings
- Adds an exotic, tropical feel to shade gardens
- Excellent for Hawaiian native plant gardens
- Fascinating conversation starter due to its ancient lineage
Growing Conditions
This little Hawaiian native has some specific preferences:
- Light: Partial to full shade – direct sunlight can be too harsh
- Moisture: Consistent moisture is key, but good drainage prevents root rot
- Humidity: Loves humid conditions (think tropical!)
- Soil: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil works best
- Climate: Thrives in tropical and subtropical conditions
Identifying Dwarf Spikemoss
Spotting dwarf spikemoss is pretty straightforward once you know what to look for:
- Tiny, overlapping scale-like leaves arranged in four rows
- Branching, almost fern-like growth pattern
- Low-growing, carpet-forming habit
- Bright to medium green coloration
- No flowers – reproduces via small cone-like structures containing spores
Wildlife and Ecological Benefits
While dwarf spikemoss doesn’t produce nectar for pollinators (since it doesn’t flower), it does contribute to Hawaii’s native ecosystem. Its dense, low growth can provide microhabitat for small insects and helps prevent soil erosion in its natural habitat.
The Bottom Line
Dwarf spikemoss is a unique addition for gardeners in tropical climates who want to grow something truly special. Its ancient lineage, delicate beauty, and Hawaiian heritage make it a conversation piece that connects your garden to millions of years of plant evolution. Just remember to source it responsibly and provide the humid, shaded conditions this island native craves.
Whether you’re creating a native Hawaiian garden or simply want to add something prehistoric and exotic to your shade garden, dwarf spikemoss offers a glimpse into the plant world’s distant past while bringing subtle beauty to your landscape today.
