Selaginella willdenowii aka Peacock Fern

Taxonomy

Selaginella willdenowii, also known as Willdenow's spikemoss or peacock fern, is an evergreen rhizomatous, mat-forming perennial in the Selaginellaceae family. It is a fern ally with slender stems covered in small scale-like leaves that can vary in size and growth pattern. This plant develops spores in short terminal spikes and is known for its iridescent blue leaves that can change color depending on the light. Peacock fern is a rare houseplant that thrives with regular watering and abundant sunlight, preferably within 3 feet of a window. It prefers soil that retains moisture and should be repotted each time it doubles in size, eliminating the need for added fertilizers. Although sometimes spelled incorrectly as Selaginella willdenovii, this unique and beautiful plant is a must-have for any plant lover.

Common names

Peacock Fern

How to care for Peacock Fern

Difficulty

With a bit of knowledge and dedication, you can successfully care for Peacock Fern, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking a moderate challenge.

Water

Peacock Fern should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Peacock Fern requires special care to keep it thriving. Its sensitivity to dry soil means that you need to be especially careful when it comes to selecting the right potting soil. Look for a soil that will retain moisture, but is also well-draining. A good potting soil should have plenty of organic material, such as coco coir or sphagnum moss, which will help to keep the soil moist and provide extra nutrition for your plant. When planting your Peacock Fern, make sure to mix the soil with some compost or manure to give it an extra boost of nutrients. Additionally, you should water your plant often to ensure that the soil remains moist. With the right care and attention, your Peacock Fern will bloom beautifully in your home.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Peacock Fern prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Toxicity

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.

Fertilizer

The growth rate of Peacock Fern is slow and it doesn't necessitate additional fertilizing. By changing the soil in its pot annually, the plant should be provided with adequate nutrition. It is crucial to keep in mind that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizers.

Region of origin

Peacock Fern’s native range is Worldwide.


More info:
Wikipedia