Peruvian Spikemoss: A Tiny Ancient Wonder for Your Garden
Meet Peruvian spikemoss (Selaginella peruviana), a fascinating little plant that’s been around since dinosaurs roamed the earth! Don’t let the name fool you though – this isn’t actually a moss at all. It’s what botanists call a spikemoss or lycopod, making it more closely related to ferns than to true mosses. Think of it as nature’s own living fossil, right in your backyard.
What Exactly Is Peruvian Spikemoss?
Selaginella peruviana is a perennial spikemoss that belongs to an ancient group of plants called lycopods. These remarkable plants reproduce using spores instead of seeds or flowers, just like their ancestors did millions of years ago. You might also see this plant listed under its synonym, Selaginella sheldonii, in some older plant references.
Unlike the spongy, cushiony mosses you might find on rocks or tree trunks, spikemosses have a more structured appearance with tiny, scale-like leaves arranged along delicate stems. They’re essentially miniature evergreen shrubs that never got the memo about growing big!
Where Does It Call Home?
This native American plant has made itself at home across the southwestern United States, specifically in New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas. It’s perfectly adapted to the unique growing conditions of these regions, making it a true regional specialty.
Is Peruvian Spikemoss Good for Your Garden?
The short answer? It depends on what you’re looking for! Here’s the scoop:
The pros: Peruvian spikemoss can add an interesting textural element to specialized native gardens or rock gardens. Its ancient lineage makes it a conversation starter, and supporting native plants is always a win for local ecosystems.
The reality check: This isn’t your typical garden center plant. Spikemosses like Selaginella peruviana have very specific growing requirements and aren’t commonly available in cultivation. They’re more suited for specialized collectors or native plant enthusiasts who can provide the exact conditions they need.
Spotting Peruvian Spikemoss in the Wild
If you’re lucky enough to encounter this little gem during your outdoor adventures, here’s how to identify it:
- Look for tiny, scale-like leaves that overlap along the stems
- The overall appearance is more structured and branchy than true moss
- It typically grows as small, low mats or cushions
- Found in its native range of New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas
- Prefers well-draining soils in natural habitats
Growing Conditions and Care
While specific cultivation information for Selaginella peruviana is limited, spikemosses generally prefer:
- Well-draining soil that doesn’t stay soggy
- Protection from extreme weather conditions
- Consistent but not excessive moisture
- Partial shade to filtered light
Based on its native range, this species likely thrives in USDA hardiness zones 7-10, though exact tolerance levels aren’t well documented.
The Bottom Line
Peruvian spikemoss is more of a appreciate in nature plant than a grow in your garden plant for most gardeners. Unless you’re a serious native plant collector with experience growing specialized species, you might want to admire this ancient beauty during hiking trips instead.
If you’re interested in adding native ground covers to your southwestern garden, consider asking your local native plant society about more readily available alternatives that can provide similar textural interest while being easier to establish and maintain.
Sometimes the most special plants are the ones we leave wild and wonderful right where nature intended them to be!
