Selaginella caulescens

Selaginella caulescens is a species within the Selaginella genus, commonly known as spike moss. This genus, belonging to the family Selaginellaceae, comprises over 700 species of seedless vascular plants distributed globally, with a strong presence in tropical regions.1

These plants are characterized by their mossy or fernlike appearance, featuring scalelike leaves arranged spirally or in four ranks on trailing, climbing, or erect stems. Selaginella caulescens specifically originates from East Asia and is sometimes cultivated as a houseplant.1

A key characteristic of Selaginella is that all species are heterosporous, meaning they produce two types of spores: larger megaspores and smaller microspores. These spores develop into female and male gametophytes, respectively, and are notable for their thick walls and prominent three-part ridges.1