Selaginella Erythropus 'Ruby Red' Club Moss: A Striking Addition to Terrariums

Selaginella erythropus, commonly known as Ruby Red Club Moss, is a unique, tropical plant known for its vibrant red stems and lush, fern-like foliage. Native to South America, this plant is not a true moss but rather a member of the spikemoss family, making it a fascinating addition to terrariums and vivariums. With its stunning coloration and soft texture, Selaginella erythropus adds a touch of rich, tropical color to any indoor plant setup.

Origin and Natural Habitat

The Ruby Red Club Moss is native to the rainforests of South America, particularly in Colombia and Ecuador, where it thrives in warm, humid, and shaded environments. In its natural habitat, it grows in the moist understory of the forest, absorbing ambient humidity and growing low to the ground. This environment provides a glimpse into the conditions Selaginella erythropus needs to flourish in terrariums.

Characteristics and Appearance

Selaginella erythropus has finely textured leaves that range from green on the top surface to a striking ruby red or burgundy color on the underside and stems. This color contrast creates a beautiful layered effect, adding depth and dimension to any terrarium. The plant’s creeping growth habit allows it to spread horizontally, forming a dense mat over time that complements other plants in terrarium setups.

Tips for Growing Selaginella Erythropus in Terrariums

To recreate the lush, tropical environment it loves, here are some care tips to help Selaginella erythropus thrive in a terrarium:

1. Light Requirements: Ruby Red Club Moss prefers low to moderate, indirect light, similar to what it receives on the forest floor. Direct sunlight can damage its delicate leaves and cause fading. Place it in a shaded part of the terrarium or use artificial light if natural lighting is too intense. Grow lights designed for low-light plants work well to maintain its vibrant colors without overstimulating growth.
2. Humidity: High humidity is essential for Selaginella erythropus, as it is accustomed to the moist air of rainforests. Aim to keep the humidity above 70%. This plant is well-suited for closed terrariums, where the humidity remains consistently high. To boost humidity, mist the plant regularly, but ensure that excess water does not pool around the roots, as this can lead to rot.
3. Temperature: It prefers warm, stable temperatures between 65–80°F (18–27°C). Cold drafts or fluctuating temperatures can stress the plant. In cooler climates, make sure your terrarium is kept in a warm location or use a small heat source if necessary.
4. Substrate and Soil: Selaginella erythropus thrives in well-draining, moisture-retentive soil. Use a mix that combines peat moss, coconut coir, and perlite to hold moisture without becoming waterlogged. It’s also helpful to layer the substrate with small rocks or activated charcoal at the bottom to improve drainage and reduce the risk of root rot.
5. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid waterlogging. Ruby Red Club Moss does not tolerate drying out, so regular monitoring is essential, especially if the terrarium has airflow. Use distilled or rainwater, as tap water with high mineral content can damage the delicate foliage. Check the substrate's moisture level frequently and adjust as needed to maintain slight dampness.
6. Fertilizing: Club Moss has minimal fertilizing needs. You can add a weak dose of diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer every 1-2 months during its active growing period (spring to fall) to promote growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can burn its roots and cause leaf discoloration.

Placement and Styling in Terrariums

Selaginella erythropus 'Ruby Red' is an excellent foreground or mid-ground plant in terrariums. Its compact growth habit and colorful foliage make it an eye-catching feature that pairs beautifully with other tropical plants like ferns, mosses, and peperomias. It also complements taller plants with similar moisture needs, creating a lush, layered look.

For a natural rainforest-inspired terrarium, consider placing it alongside driftwood or small rocks, allowing it to drape over surfaces or fill gaps between larger plants. The contrast of its green and red leaves adds a pop of color, making it a wonderful focal point in a terrarium.

Why Choose Selaginella Erythropus 'Ruby Red'?

This plant is perfect for those looking to add unique texture and color to their terrariums. It’s a low-maintenance choice for closed setups where humidity is maintained, and it provides an exotic, lush appearance that’s hard to achieve with other plants. With the right care, Selaginella erythropus will reward you with a visually appealing, vibrant display that’s sure to enhance your indoor garden.

Conclusion

Selaginella erythropus 'Ruby Red' is a remarkable plant that brings a touch of tropical rainforest ambiance to terrariums. Its red-stemmed, green-leafed beauty, coupled with its ease of care in high-humidity environments, makes it a valuable addition for both beginner and experienced plant enthusiasts. By recreating its natural habitat with controlled light, humidity, and soil conditions, this plant will thrive and transform your terrarium into a miniature jungle.