Krauss' Spikemoss Selaginella kraussiana 'Gold Tips'
ABOUT
The plant known as Gold Tips has a distinctive and attractive appearance, characterized primarily by its foliage that has a vibrant, golden-yellow coloration at the tips, giving it a two-tone effect. The leaves are small, scale-like, and densely packed along the stems. The overall form of the plant is a spreading mat with a feathery texture. The stems are slender and can be either upright or trailing, depending on the surroundings. The contrast between the green of the older growth and the golden tips of the newer growth is most pronounced, creating an appealing display of color throughout the plant. The lush, moss-like appearance makes Gold Tips a popular choice for adding a splash of color and texture to gardens or terrariums.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Selaginellaceae
Synonyms
Krauss's Spikemoss, Variegated Spikemoss, Gold Tips Clubmoss, Golden Clubmoss
Common names
Lycopodium kraussianum, Selaginella kraussiana.
ToxicityTo humans
The Selaginella kraussiana 'Gold Tips', commonly known as spikemoss, is not considered toxic to humans. Therefore, ingestion of this plant typically does not cause any harmful symptoms or consequences. However, it's always advisable to avoid eating ornamental plants, as individual sensitivity to plants can vary, and ingestion can sometimes lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to the plant matter that is not accustomed to a human diet.
To pets
Spikemoss is not known to be toxic to pets. If a pet were to ingest this plant, it is unlikely to cause significant symptoms or consequences of poisoning. Nevertheless, as with humans, individual sensitivity can vary, and ingestion of non-food plants can sometimes lead to mild gastrointestinal upset in some pets. Always monitor your pet's health and consult with a veterinarian if you have concerns about their well-being after consuming any plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green with gold tips
Height
0.2 feet (0.06 meters)
Spread
1 foot (0.3 meters)
Plant type
Creeper
Hardiness zones
6
Native area
Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental appeal: The gold-tipped foliage offers an attractive, unusual look that can add aesthetic interest to gardens or indoor spaces.
- Shade-loving: It thrives in shaded areas where other plants might struggle, making it ideal for woodland gardens or dimly lit rooms.
- Low maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, making it suitable for novice gardeners or those looking for easy-care plants.
- Groundcover: Spreads readily to form a dense mat, which can help prevent soil erosion and suppress weed growth.
- Humidity tolerance: Prefers and thrives in moist environments, fitting well into terrariums or humid rooms.
- Drought resistance: Once established, it can tolerate periods of dryness, making it resilient and adaptable to various conditions.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Decorative Bottle Gardens: Selaginella kraussiana 'Gold Tips', commonly known as Gold Tips Spikemoss, can be used to create layers of green in small bottle gardens due to its compact growth and attractive foliage.
- Train Modeling: Hobbyists in model railroading can use the delicate foliage of Gold Tips Spikemoss to mimic shrubs or small trees in miniature landscapes for their train setups.
- Fairy Gardens: Its tiny, golden-flecked leaves make Gold Tips Spikemoss a popular choice for creating enchanting fairy gardens, providing a lush, magical ground cover.
- Jewelry Making: Dried parts of the plant can be incorporated into botanical jewelry, such as pendants and resin bracelets, adding a natural touch to wearable art.
- Education: Gold Tips Spikemoss can be used in biology classes for observation and studies related to plant morphology, adaptation, and the life cycle of primitive land plants.
- Photography: Its unique texture and color make it a striking subject for macro photographers who specialize in plant and nature photography.
- Art Supplies: Dried pieces of Gold Tips Spikemoss can be included in mixed-media art projects or as part of the materials for eco-friendly collages.
- Culinary Presentation: Although not edible, creative chefs might use the vibrant leaves to add visual appeal to the presentation of dishes, being careful to make clear it is not to be consumed.
- Living Table Runners: For events, Gold Tips Spikemoss can be arranged on tables as a part of sustainable, living table runners that bring a touch of nature to the décor.
- Craft Projects: Children can use non-toxic parts of the Gold Tips Spikemoss in school projects or crafts to illustrate natural landscapes or for creating dioramas.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe club moss is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe club moss is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Also known as Spikemoss, Selaginella kraussiana 'Gold Tips' has the ability to withstand tough conditions and can revive from a dried-out state when watered, symbolizing one's capacity to recover from challenging situations.
- Evergreen Nature: Being an evergreen plant, Spikemoss represents perpetual life and the idea of immortality or eternal youth due to its constant green appearance throughout the year.
- Versatility: Spikemoss can adapt to a variety of environments, so it symbolizes flexibility and the ability to thrive in diverse situations.
- Humility: As a groundcover plant, Spikemoss may symbolize humility, staying low to the ground and supporting the life of other organisms, reminding us of the importance of grounding and supporting others.
WaterKrauss' spikemoss, or Selaginella kraussiana 'Gold Tips', prefers consistently moist soil, so regular watering is essential. Water the plant thoroughly, ensuring that water reaches deep into the roots, about once a week or when the surface of the soil feels slightly dry to the touch. During the warmer months or in a particularly dry indoor environment, the frequency may increase to twice a week. Adjust the amount of water given to the size of the plant and the pot; typically, for a small to medium-sized pot, use around 8 to 16 ounces of water per session, but be careful not to overwater as standing water can lead to root rot.
LightKrauss' spikemoss performs best in bright, indirect light. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, which can scorch the delicate foliage. A spot near a north or east-facing window where the plant can receive soft, diffused light would be ideal. If natural light is insufficient, consider using artificial grow lights to supplement light levels, ensuring the plant receives the required brightness without the heat that could damage it.
TemperatureFor Krauss' spikemoss, aim to maintain an environment between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal growth. It can tolerate a minimum temperature of around 50 degrees Fahrenheit but should not be exposed to temperatures below this, as it could cause damage or stress to the plant. Similarly, temperatures above 80 degrees Fahrenheit may be too hot and cause the plant to dry out more quickly, so it should ideally be kept in the recommended range for best results.
PruningPruning Krauss' spikemoss isn't typically necessary for the health of the plant but can be done to maintain its shape or remove any brown or yellowed leaves. Use clean, sharp scissors to trim away any unwanted or unhealthy foliage, particularly after a growth spurt in spring or summer. This is the best time for pruning as the plant is actively growing and will recover quickly from any cuts.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFor Selaginella kraussiana 'Gold Tips', commonly known as Krauss's Spikemoss, the best soil mix is one that is well-draining yet retains moisture, such as a combination of peat moss, perlite, and compost. Aim for a slightly acidic pH between 5.5 and 6.0 for optimal growth.
RepottingKrauss's Spikemoss should be repotted every 1-2 years to replenish soil nutrients and to accommodate the plant’s growth. Spring is the ideal time to repot this moisture-loving plant.
Humidity & MistingKrauss's Spikemoss thrives in high humidity conditions, preferably above 60%. To cultivate a healthy plant, ensure that the surrounding air is consistently moist without saturating the soil directly.
Suitable locationsIndoor
For Krauss's Spikemoss, provide high humidity and indirect light indoors.
Outdoor
Plant Krauss's Spikemoss in shade with moist soil outdoors.
Hardiness zone
Krauss's Spikemoss is suitable for USDA zones 6-9.
Life cycleSelaginella kraussiana 'Gold Tips', commonly known as Krauss' Spikemoss or Gold Tip Selaginella, starts its life cycle as spores, since it is a non-flowering plant. These spores germinate to produce small, green, photosynthetic gametophytes, which are generally bisexual, containing both archegonia and antheridia. The fertilization of egg and sperm occurs on these gametophytes, resulting in the formation of a zygote which then develops into a new sporophyte. This young sporophyte will eventually mature into an adult plant, forming stems that spread along the ground or substrate, showcasing its characteristic golden tipped foliage. As it matures, the plant undergoes vegetative reproduction by fragmentation, where pieces of the stem break off and take root, producing new colonies of plants. Additionally, it completes its life cycle by producing new spores in cone-like structures called strobili, thus repeating the process.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Summer
The club moss Selaginella kraussiana 'Gold Tips', commonly known as Gold Tip Selaginella, is best propagated during warmer months when growth is more active, typically from late spring through early autumn. The most popular method for propagating this plant is through division or by separating the small plantlets. To do this, carefully lift the plant from its pot and gently tease apart the tangled mass of roots and stems, ensuring each new section has a good amount of both. Then, pot each division into fresh soil suited for tropical plants, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. The potting mix should ideally be a well-draining, peat-based mixture. Place the newly potted divisions in a warm (around 70°F or 21°C), indirect light environment where they can establish their roots. In a few weeks, with proper care, the divisions will grow into full-fledged plants.
