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bushy spikemoss
Scientific Name: Selaginella bigelovii
Family: Selaginellaceae
Category: Lycopod
Growth: Forb/herb
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Selaginella bigelovii (Bushy Spikemoss)
Selaginella bigelovii, commonly known as bushy spikemoss or Bigelow's spikemoss, is a fascinating plant that, despite its common name, is not a true moss. It's a primitive vascular plant belonging to the spikemoss family.
Considerations for Pets
- Selaginella bigelovii can form mats on rocks, which, if dislodged, might pose a choking hazard for small animals.
- Some texts mention "wiry" foliage, indicating the possibility of minor skin irritation if handled roughly.
Considerations for Children
- Selaginella bigelovii can form mats on rocks, which, if dislodged, might pose a choking hazard for small children.
- Some texts mention "wiry" foliage, indicating the possibility of minor skin irritation if handled roughly.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Selaginella bigelovii Underw.
- Common Names: Bushy spikemoss, Bigelow's spikemoss, Bigelow's moss fern, Spike Moss, Moss fern
- Family: Selaginellaceae (Spike-moss family)
- Kingdom: Plants (Plantae)
- Phylum: Lycopodiophyta
- Class: Lycopodiopsida
- Order: Selaginellales
- Genus: Selaginella
- Taxonomic Status: Accepted
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to California and Baja California.
- Found on rock outcrops, often in locations like Hornblend Canyon in the Anza-Borrego Desert.
- Can be found on dry rocky banks and upper rocky slopes, including chaparral and coastal sage scrub habitats.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Perennial herb, colonial, and rhizomatous.
- Fibrous roots originate from rhizomes.
- Evergreen plant, or brownish-green during dry periods.
- Forms mats on rocks with leafy stems ascending to shortly erect.
Quirky Facts
- Selaginella bigelovii is named after physician-botanist John Milton Bigelow (1804-1878).
- It is not a true moss, but rather a primitive vascular plant.
Ecological Role
- Chamise and bushy spikemoss thrive on the upper rocky slopes.
Further Information
- Dave's Garden: A community sharing tips and ideas for gardens, seeds, and plants.
- CalPhotos: Online database of photos.
- www.craigrcarey.net/2013/01/project-meriadoc/
- Garden Guides: Provides facts on plants commonly known as Spikemoss.