Peacock fern

ℹ️ Selaginella uncinata

📝 COMMON NAMES:
Peacock fern, Peacock Spikemoss, Rainbow Spikemoss, Peacock Moss

Selaginella uncinata, commonly known as Peacock Spikemoss, is admired for its iridescent bluish-green foliage. Native to China, it prefers high humidity and bright, indirect light. This plant can be quite eye-catching when the light hits the leaves, displaying a range of colors. Ideal for terrariums and shaded outdoor areas.

☠️ Toxicity: Non-toxic to pets and humans
💨 Air-purifying Qualities: Moderate
👍 Difficulty Level: Moderate to High

☠️ Non-Toxic ⛅ Bright Indirect Light 🌤 Not Drought-Tolerant 🌱 Terrestrial 🌳 Garden 🌴 Small Plant 🌼 Ground Cover 🌿 Fern-Allies 🏡 Greenhouse 💦 High Humidity 🔅 Medium Light 🔧 Moderate Maintenance.🚿 Frequent Watering 🟡 Intermediate Difficulty 🦚 Iridescent Foliage 🪴 Potted

Peacock fern Care 101

Water

Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot. It's crucial to maintain a high level of humidity around the plant. Misting is highly recommended, especially during drier months. A saucer filled with water and pebbles placed under the pot can also help increase humidity.

Light

Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some shade. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and fade their iridescent quality. If grown indoors, a north or east-facing window is ideal. Artificial light can also be used if it's not too intense. Rotate the plant occasionally for even growth.

Temperature

Ideal temperatures range from 60-80°F (16-27°C). It's crucial to maintain high humidity around the plant. Brown tips or wilting may indicate that the humidity is too low. Use a humidifier, mist regularly, or place a saucer filled with water and pebbles under the pot to increase humidity. Avoid drafts and sudden temperature changes.

Fertilizer

Fertilize with a diluted liquid fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can lead to nutrient imbalances and may harm the plant. Always water the plant thoroughly before applying fertilizer to prevent root burn. During the winter, reduce or eliminate fertilization.

Care and Maintenance

🌱 Soil Type and pH: Well-draining, acidic to neutral
💦 Humidity and Misting: High humidity; misting recommended
✂️ Pruning: Trim to control growth
🧼 Cleaning: Gently remove dead leaves
🪴 Repotting: Rarely needed
🔄 Repotting Frequency: Only when root-bound or to refresh soil
❄️ Seasonal Changes in Care: Increase humidity and decrease watering in winter

FULL CARE GUIDE

Growing Characteristics

💥 Growth Speed: Moderate
🔄 Life Cycle: Perennial
💥 Bloom Time: Rarely blooms
🌍 Hardiness Zones: 6-10
🗺️ Native Area: China
🛌 Hibernation: No

Propagation and Health

📍 Suitable Locations: Indoor terrariums, shaded outdoor areas
🌱 Propagation Methods: Division, stem cuttings
🐛 Common Pests: Aphids, spider mites
🦠 Possible Diseases: Root rot if overwatered

Plant Details

🌴 Plant Type: Fern Ally
🍃 Foliage Type: Evergreen
🌿 Color of Leaves: Iridescent bluish-green
🌸 Flower Color: N/A
🌸 Blooming: Rarely blooms
🍪 Edibility: Not edible
📏 Mature Size: 6-12 inches high, can spread several feet

Taxonomy

👑 Kingdom: Plantae
🎖️ Division: Lycopodiophyta
🏫 Class: Selaginellopsida
📜 Order: Selaginellales
👪 Family: Selaginellaceae
🌿 Genus: Selaginella
🔬 Species: S. uncinata

Additional Info

🌻 General Benefits: Aesthetic appeal, air purification
⚕️ Medical Properties: None known
☯️ Feng Shui: Symbolizes growth and vitality
✨ Zodiac Sign Compatibility: Cancer
🍀 Symbolism or Folklore: N/A
📖 Interesting Facts: The iridescent leaves can appear to change color in different lighting conditions.

Buying and Usage

🛒 What to Look for When Buying: Healthy, vibrant foliage without signs of pests or diseases
🌱 Other Uses: Decorative

Decoration and Styling

🖼️ Display Ideas: Terrariums, hanging baskets, shaded garden beds
🎨 Styling Tips: Works well in tropical or fairy garden settings