Club ferns, also known as spike moss or Selaginella, are popular houseplants valued for their delicate, fern-like foliage and vibrant green hues. These ancient plants add a lush texture to indoor spaces, making them ideal for terrariums and shaded displays. Despite their common names, club ferns are not true ferns but belong to a distinct lineage of vascular plants.
Understanding Club Ferns
Club ferns belong to the genus Selaginella, the sole living genus in the family Selaginellaceae. While distinct from true ferns and mosses, they reproduce by spores. Selaginella species display diverse growth habits, from low, creeping mats to upright, branched structures. Their foliage features small, scale-like leaves that overlap along stems, creating a dense, mossy appearance. Popular houseplant species include Selaginella kraussiana (vibrant green, trailing), Selaginella uncinata (peacock moss, iridescent blue-green), and Selaginella martensii (‘Frosty Fern,’ white-tipped growth). These plants originate from moist, shaded tropical and subtropical forest habitats, informing their specific care needs.
Club Fern Care Essentials
Light Needs
Club ferns thrive in bright, indirect light, mimicking their natural forest floor habitat. Direct sunlight can scorch their foliage, causing leaves to fade or brown. Insufficient light may lead to leggy growth as the plant stretches for illumination.
Watering
Club ferns require consistent moisture, preferring evenly moist but not waterlogged soil. Their delicate root system is prone to rot if saturated, so proper drainage is essential. Water when the topsoil feels slightly dry, typically every one to three days for indoor plants. Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the plant.
Humidity
High humidity is crucial for club ferns, as they naturally grow in moist environments. Low air moisture can cause leaves to brown or crisp. Increase humidity by placing the plant on a pebble tray, using a humidifier, or grouping plants. Terrariums also provide an excellent enclosed environment for maintaining high humidity.
Soil and Potting
An ideal soil mix for club ferns is well-draining yet moisture-retentive. A standard, slightly acidic houseplant potting mix rich in organic matter is suitable. Incorporating perlite improves drainage, while vermiculite aids water retention. Pots with good drainage holes are essential to prevent root rot.
Fertilizing
Club ferns do not require heavy fertilization. During their active growing season (spring and summer), they benefit from light, infrequent feeding. A balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer, diluted to half strength and applied once or twice, is usually sufficient. Over-fertilizing can harm these sensitive plants, potentially causing root burn.
Propagation and Repotting
Propagating Club Ferns
Club ferns are easily propagated via stem cuttings. Take healthy stem tip cuttings 4 to 5 inches long, removing lower leaves to leave a small tuft of greenery. Place cuttings directly into moist, well-draining soil or root them in fresh sphagnum moss. Consistent moisture and a warm, humid environment encourage root development.
Repotting Club Ferns
Repot club ferns when they outgrow their container, indicated by roots visible through drainage holes, or when soil quality degrades. The best time is spring or early summer, during active growth. Choose a pot only slightly larger to avoid over-potting. Gently remove the plant, disturbing the delicate root system minimally. Fill the new pot with fresh soil mix, settle the plant, and water thoroughly.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Club ferns show distress through various signs. Browning or crispy leaves often indicate insufficient humidity or underwatering. Drooping or wilting leaves can signal either underwatering or overwatering leading to root rot; check soil moisture to differentiate.
Leggy growth, with stretched stems and sparse foliage, points to insufficient light; move the plant to a brighter, indirect light location. Club ferns are also susceptible to pests like spider mites and mealybugs, especially in low humidity. Regular inspection and treatment with organic methods like neem oil or insecticidal soap are effective. A general lack of growth may suggest inadequate light, nutrients, or humidity.
Toxicity and Safety
Club ferns (Selaginella genus) are generally considered non-toxic to humans and common household pets, including cats and dogs. While safe, it is still advisable to keep houseplants out of reach to prevent accidental ingestion, which could cause mild digestive upset if consumed in large quantities.