Selaginella Wallichii Aquatic

Selaginella wallichii, commonly known as Wallich’s Spikemoss or Fan Fern, is a stunning, primitive vascular plant belonging to the family Selaginellaceae. While it is frequently sold in the aquarium trade as an “aquatic” plant, it is important to clarify its true botanical nature to ensure its survival in a captive environment.

The “Aquatic” Misconception

Critical Note: Selaginella wallichii is not a true aquatic plant. In its natural habitat across Southeast Asia (including India, Myanmar, and Malaysia), it grows on the damp, shaded floors of tropical rainforests.

• Submerged Life: If kept fully submerged in an aquarium, the plant will eventually suffocate and rot over a period of $2$ to $4$ months.

• Ideal Use: It is a world-class choice for terrariums, vivariums, and paludariums, where its roots stay moist but its fronds remain in the air.

Botanical Characteristics

• Growth Habit: It features upright, fan-like fronds that branch out in a distinct, geometric pattern. It spreads via creeping rhizomes that produce “rhizophores” (root-like structures) to anchor the plant.

• Foliage: The “leaves” are actually tiny scales (microphylls) arranged in four ranks along the stems. They have a deep, emerald green color with a slight metallic or iridescent sheen under the right lighting.

• Reproduction: As a lycophyte, it does not produce seeds or flowers. Instead, it reproduces via spores held in small, cone-like structures called strobili at the tips of the branches.

Environmental & Growing Conditions

Maintenance & Care Tips

1. Watering: The substrate should always be damp but never waterlogged. Use distilled, RO, or rainwater, as Selaginella is sensitive to the minerals and chlorine found in tap water.

2. Air Circulation: While it loves humidity, stagnant air can lead to fungal issues. In a terrarium, a small fan or opening the lid for a few minutes daily is beneficial.

3. Pruning: If the plant outgrows its space, you can trim the upright fans. This often encourages the rhizome to spread horizontally, creating a denser carpet.

4. Fertilization: Requires very little feeding. A highly diluted liquid organic fertilizer applied once every few months during the growing season is sufficient.

Design Roles

• Paludariums: Place it on the “land” portion just above the water line. Its roots will reach down into the moisture while the fans provide a lush, prehistoric backdrop.

• Vivarium Backgrounds: Because of its height (reaching up to $20$–$30$ cm), it is perfect for the mid-ground or background of a tropical frog or reptile enclosure.

• Living Walls: Its ability to “climb” slightly and its fan-shaped spread make it ideal for vertical tropical displays.