This
Selaginella is native to the US gulf
coast and occupies a very narrow
range. It occurs from eastern
Louisiana to Florida and only
along the coast. It is closely
related to S. apoda and was once
considered a form of that species but
now it is regarded as a distinct
species.
Map
showing the known distribution
of the Gulf Spikemoss
It is
actually quite rare and difficult to
find in nature. Over my many years of
exploring for native plants I have found
it in only a couple of places. It
is easy to grow and its obviously very
cold hardy. I have not had any
difficulty establishing it
outdoors. It now grows very well
it in several shaded areas of my
yard. Best to plant in outdoors
during a rainy season so that it can
become well established. Once
established it will tolerate any
seasonal drought.
This Selaginella is truly a
miniature. The very tiny foliage
makes it an attractive addition for any
terrarium. I grow quite a bit of
it in pots and hanging baskets.
