How Large Does Spike Moss Grow?

Spike Moss

• The versatile spike moss, depending on species, can be either an annual or perennial plant. Spike moss does not have seeds, instead using spores to propagate. Belonging to the genus Selaginella, they do not flower nor do they have true roots. Branched stems of simple leaves grow in four rows, with half long leaves and half short leaves.

Habitat

• Spike moss can grow in shade to light shade. Preferring a moist environment, once established, spike moss will root the tips of stems where they touch the ground and spread in this unlimited fashion. In this manner, they form a soft, ever-expanding mat. Depending on environmental conditions, spike moss will attain heights of 1/2 to 4 inches, with some occasionally reaching 6 inches in height.

Pests

• Though some form of spike moss has been around close to 400 million years, it is not indestructible. Loss of moisture harms the plants. If used as part of your indoor terrarium garden, spike moss is susceptible to both spider mites and mealybugs. Outdoor plantings are prone to slugs.

Varieties

• As part of the 700-member Selaginella genus, spike moss comes in a variety of colors and forms. The woodland species makes a grand ground cover. Trailing spike moss, only 1/2 inch high, has no boundaries as it spreads. Three-inch pincushion makes soft mounds. Golden spike moss adds a golden to soft yellow color to your garden. Additional colors include ruby red, frosted, peacock and even a cascade of rainbow colors from one plant.