Golden Krauss' Spikemoss
Selaginella kraussiana aurea
aurea
About this plant
Selaginella kraussiana 'Aurea' is a small, spreading plant known for its bright golden-green, fern-like foliage. It forms a dense mat and is often used as ground cover or in terrariums. This cultivar is prized for its vibrant color and delicate texture, adding a splash of brightness to shaded areas.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Selaginella
- Family
- Selaginellaceae
- Higher classification
- Lycopodiopsida (clubmosses)
- Plant type
- Houseplant
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Southern Africa
- Distribution
- Widely cultivated as a houseplant and ground cover in temperate and tropical regions worldwide.
Care
- Light preference
- Partial shade
- Suitable locations
- Indoor, Greenhouse, Balcony
- Preferred window facing
- North-facing, Northeast-facing, East-facing, Northwest-facing
- Watering frequency
- Frequent
- Watering interval
- 1–3 days
- Humidity
- High
- Minimum
- 10 °C
- Maximum
- 30 °C
- Optimal
- 18-24 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 9-11
- Soil pH
- 5.5-6.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Soil type
- well-draining, peat-based potting mix
Watering. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water when the top layer feels slightly dry. Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water.
Fertilizing. Feed with a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid over-fertilizing, which can harm the plant.
This plant prefers moist, shady environments and needs regular watering to keep its soil damp but not soggy. It can suffer if kept too dry or in direct sunlight. Overall, it requires moderate care with attention to humidity and watering.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Cuttings, Division
- Care difficulty
- Medium
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- No
Bright golden-green, fern-like foliage forming a dense, low mat.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Non-toxic to humans and pets, safe to keep around children and animals.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Dust accumulation
- Pollen level
- None
Selaginella kraussiana 'Aurea' is generally safe and unlikely to cause allergies. However, people sensitive to plant spores or dust may experience mild irritation. To reduce exposure, keep the plant clean and avoid disturbing the soil too much.
Common problems
If overwatered, the roots may rot; if underwatered, the leaves turn brown and dry. Too much direct sunlight can cause leaf burn. Low humidity may cause the plant to dry out and lose its vibrant color.
Uses
Used as an ornamental houseplant for ground cover in terrariums and shaded garden areas due to its attractive golden foliage.
Notes
Prune occasionally to maintain shape and remove dead parts. Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its container. Sensitive to dry air, so misting or a humidity tray helps.