Selaginella sp. Rainbow

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Selaginella sp. Rainbow —also known as Rainbow Spike Moss—is a fascinating, rare tropical plant admired for its iridescent foliage that shifts between blue, pink, purple, and green depending on the light. Unlike true mosses, Selaginella is a primitive fern ally that thrives in humid, shaded forest floors. Its beauty lies in its delicate texture and magical colour play, but it does require consistent moisture and a stable environment. Here is a complete 600-word care guide to help your Rainbow Selaginella thrive.

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Selaginella sp. Rainbow – Complete Care Guide :

1. Light Requirements

Rainbow Selaginella prefers medium to low indirect light. Too much light will wash out its iridescent colours and may scorch the thin fronds. Ideal locations include east-facing rooms, shaded balconies, or spots away from direct sun. Bright but indirect light enhances the rainbow sheen and keeps the foliage dense.

Avoid placing it in harsh sunlight, especially during the afternoon, as it can cause brown tips and leaf curling. If your indoor space is dim, LED grow lights set on low intensity also work well. Keep lights 30–40 cm above the plant for gentle illumination.

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2. Watering Needs

Selaginella is extremely moisture-loving. The soil must remain consistently damp but never waterlogged. Water whenever the top layer of the soil begins to dry slightly. If the plant dries out completely even once, it may become crispy and difficult to revive.

Use room-temperature water and moisten the soil thoroughly, allowing excess water to drain. Avoid letting water sit at the bottom of the pot. In dry seasons or AC rooms, check the soil more frequently. You can also bottom-water by placing the pot in a tray for a few minutes to ensure even moisture.

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3. Humidity Requirements

This plant absolutely thrives in very high humidity, ideally above 70%. Without high humidity, its fronds may brown at the edges or lose their vibrant colours.

Ways to maintain humidity:

• Use a humidifier near the plant.

• Place the pot on a pebble tray filled with water.

• Keep it inside terrariums, which is the best environment for Selaginella.

• Group it with other moisture-loving plants.

Avoid frequent misting directly on the leaves because prolonged wet foliage may encourage fungal issues.

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4. Temperature

Rainbow Selaginella enjoys warm, stable temperatures between 18°C–27°C. It is sensitive to extremes. Cold drafts, sudden temperature changes, and hot, dry air from heaters or AC vents can stress the plant.

Never expose it to temperatures below 15°C, as it can cause sudden collapse or frond burn.

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5. Soil Mix

Selaginella prefers a soft, moisture-retentive but breathable mix. The best soil should mimic forest-floor conditions. An ideal mix includes:

• 40% cocopeat or peat moss

• 30% perlite

• 20% compost or leaf mould

• 10% fine bark

This ensures moisture retention without turning soggy. Avoid compacted garden soil, as it suffocates delicate roots.

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6. Potting and Repotting

Use shallow, wide pots because Selaginella grows horizontally rather than vertically. Terracotta or plastic pots work fine, but plastic maintains moisture better. Repot only when the plant overgrows the container or the soil becomes compacted. When repotting, handle gently, as the stems are fragile.

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7. Fertilising

Selaginella grows in nutrient-rich forest floors but does not demand heavy fertilising. Feed lightly with a diluted liquid fertiliser (¼ strength) once every 4–6 weeks during the growing season. Overfertilising can scorch the plant and fade the rainbow effect. Do not fertilise in winter or during stress.

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8. Pests & Problems

While Selaginella rarely attracts pests, stressful conditions may invite fungus gnats, spider mites, or mould. Improve airflow and maintain proper humidity balance. Treat pests with neem oil or mild horticultural soap—always dilute and avoid spraying heavily on delicate fronds.

Crisping, browning, and shrinking of foliage usually indicate low humidity or underwatering. Pale growth shows insufficient light.

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9. Propagation

Selaginella ‘Rainbow’ is easy to propagate through division. Gently separate a clump with roots attached and plant it in similar moist soil. Keep humidity high until it establishes. Stems can also root if laid on moist substrate.