Ridge Spikemoss: The Tiny Ancient Plant That’s Older Than Dinosaurs
Meet ridge spikemoss (Selaginella dorsicola), a fascinating little plant that’s been quietly thriving on Earth for over 400 million years. While it might look like moss at first glance, this perennial beauty is actually something quite different – and much more ancient than you might imagine!
What Exactly Is Ridge Spikemoss?
Don’t let the name fool you – ridge spikemoss isn’t actually a moss at all. It’s what botanists call a lycopod or spikemoss, making it more closely related to ferns than to true mosses. These remarkable plants are living fossils that have survived multiple mass extinctions, including the one that wiped out the dinosaurs. Talk about staying power!
Ridge spikemoss is a delicate, low-growing plant that forms intricate carpets of tiny, scale-like leaves. Unlike flowering plants, it reproduces through spores rather than seeds, giving it an almost otherworldly quality that adds mystery to any space where it grows.
Where Does Ridge Spikemoss Come From?
This little survivor is native to the Pacific Basin, specifically calling the tropical islands of Guam and Palau home. It’s perfectly adapted to the warm, humid conditions of these Pacific paradise locations, where it thrives in the understory of tropical forests.
Is Ridge Spikemoss Beneficial in Your Garden?
While ridge spikemoss won’t attract pollinators like flowering plants (remember, it reproduces via spores!), it can be a wonderful addition to the right garden setting. Here’s what makes it special:
- Creates a living carpet effect that’s both ancient and elegant
- Thrives in shady, humid spots where other plants might struggle
- Adds textural interest with its fine, delicate foliage
- Requires minimal maintenance once established
- Perfect for terrariums and indoor tropical plant collections
How to Identify Ridge Spikemoss
Spotting ridge spikemoss is easier once you know what to look for:
- Tiny, scale-like leaves that overlap like shingles on a roof
- Low-growing, carpet-forming habit
- Delicate, almost feathery appearance from a distance
- Bright to deep green coloration
- Small spore-bearing structures (sporangia) that appear seasonally
- Prefers shaded, moist environments
Growing Ridge Spikemoss Successfully
If you’re lucky enough to live in USDA zones 10-11 (or have a greenhouse), ridge spikemoss can be a delightful addition to your plant family. Here’s what it needs to thrive:
Light: Bright, indirect light or partial shade. Direct sunlight will quickly damage its delicate leaves.
Humidity: High humidity is absolutely essential. Think tropical rainforest conditions – aim for 60-80% humidity.
Water: Consistent moisture without waterlogging. The soil should feel like a wrung-out sponge.
Temperature: Warm temperatures year-round, ideally between 65-80°F (18-27°C).
Soil: Well-draining but moisture-retentive potting mix. A blend of peat, perlite, and orchid bark works well.
Perfect Plant Partnerships
Ridge spikemoss plays well with other humidity-loving tropical plants. Consider pairing it with small ferns, begonias, or other understory plants that appreciate similar growing conditions. In terrariums, it creates beautiful contrast with taller tropical plants and adds that lush, forest floor feeling.
The Bottom Line
Ridge spikemoss might not be the showiest plant in your collection, but it brings something special that few other plants can offer – a direct connection to Earth’s ancient past. If you can provide the humid, tropical conditions it craves, this little living fossil will reward you with its quiet beauty and fascinating history. Just remember, it’s definitely a plant for specialized conditions rather than your average garden bed!
