
Peacock Moss
Selaginella uncinata
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Fern
Height
4 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Keep evenly moist
Humidity
High humidity preferred
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
China
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
A creeping, mat-forming perennial known for its delicate, scale-like leaves that display a unique metallic blue-green iridescence in shade. Its most distinctive feature is the iridescent foliage that shimmers blue when viewed from certain angles, earning it the name Peacock Moss.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck spores or cuttings into moist soil or substrate.
- Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
- Mist regularly to maintain humidity levels.
- Place in indirect light; avoid direct sunlight.
- Maintain temperature between 60-75°F (15-24°C) for optimal growth.
- Transplant when roots are established, typically after 4-6 weeks.
Pro Tip
Maintain high humidity and keep soil evenly moist for thriving growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Keep soil moist and well-drained 🌱
- Provide indirect bright light
- Maintain high humidity levels
Don't
- Avoid direct sunlight ❌
- Do not let soil dry out completely
- Avoid cold drafts or temperatures below 50°F
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Propagate | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Peacock Moss questions
What zones can Peacock Moss grow in?
Peacock Moss is hardy in USDA Zones 6–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Peacock Moss deer resistant?
Yes — Peacock Moss is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Peacock Moss bloom?
Peacock Moss typically blooms in early spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Peacock Moss need full sun?
Peacock Moss does best in part shade.
More Selaginella to compare

Northern Spikemoss
Selaginella borealis

Golden Selaginella
Selaginella kraussiana 'Aurea'

Rock Spikemoss
Selaginella rupestris 'Bald Knob'

Rainbow Peacock Moss
Selaginella uncinata 'RainbowPeacock Moss'

Moellendorff's spikemoss
Selaginella moellendorffii

Meadow Spikemoss
Selaginella apoda
