Braun’s Spikemoss: A Tiny Ancient Wonder in Modern Gardens
Ever stumbled upon what looks like a miniature fern growing in a shady corner and wondered what it could be? You might have encountered Braun’s spikemoss (Selaginella braunii), one of nature’s fascinating living fossils that’s quietly making itself at home in southeastern gardens.
What Exactly Is Braun’s Spikemoss?
Despite its common name, Braun’s spikemoss isn’t actually a moss at all! This little green charmer belongs to an ancient group of plants called spikemosses or clubmosses, which are more closely related to ferns than to true mosses. Think of it as a tiny time traveler from the age of dinosaurs, sporting delicate, scale-like leaves that form flat, branching sprays.
This perennial plant stays small and low to the ground, creating intricate patterns that look almost like living lace. Unlike flowering plants, Braun’s spikemoss reproduces through spores rather than seeds, making it a unique addition to the plant kingdom’s more primitive members.
Where You’ll Find It
Originally from tropical regions, Braun’s spikemoss has established itself as a non-native resident in parts of the southeastern United States. You can currently find it growing wild in Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, and North Carolina, where it has adapted well to the humid subtropical climate.
Is It Beneficial in Your Garden?
Braun’s spikemoss can be a delightful addition to certain garden settings, particularly if you’re looking for something unique and low-maintenance. Here’s what it brings to the table:
- Textural interest: Its fine, delicate foliage adds intricate detail to shaded areas
- Ground cover potential: Forms attractive mats in humid, shaded spots
- Terrarium star: Thrives in enclosed, humid environments
- Conversation starter: Its ancient lineage makes it a fascinating talking point
However, since it’s a non-native species, you might want to consider native alternatives like native ferns or mosses that provide similar aesthetic benefits while supporting local ecosystems.
How to Identify Braun’s Spikemoss
Spotting Braun’s spikemoss is easier once you know what to look for:
- Size: Stays quite small, typically only a few inches tall
- Leaves: Tiny, scale-like leaves arranged in flattened, fan-like sprays
- Growth pattern: Forms low, spreading mats or clumps
- Color: Bright to medium green, sometimes with a slightly bluish tint
- Habitat: Prefers shaded, humid spots with consistent moisture
Growing Conditions and Care
If you’re in USDA zones 8-10 and want to try growing Braun’s spikemoss, here’s what it needs to thrive:
- Light: Bright, indirect light or dappled shade
- Moisture: Consistent humidity and soil moisture (but not waterlogged)
- Soil: Well-draining but moisture-retentive soil with good organic content
- Temperature: Warm, stable temperatures with high humidity
Keep in mind that this little plant can be quite particular about its growing conditions, preferring the kind of humid, stable environment you’d find in a greenhouse or terrarium.
The Bottom Line
Braun’s spikemoss is undeniably interesting – a living link to ancient plant lineages that can add unique texture to the right garden setting. While it’s not native to North America, it doesn’t appear to be aggressively invasive either. If you’re drawn to unusual plants and have the right growing conditions, it could be a fun addition to your collection.
However, if you’re passionate about supporting native ecosystems, consider exploring native ferns, mosses, or other small woodland plants that can provide similar aesthetic appeal while benefiting local wildlife. Your local native plant society can point you toward beautiful alternatives that will feel right at home in your garden.
