Selaginella Uncinata - Blue Peacock Fern

Selaginella Uncinata (Blue Peacock Fern) – Iridescent Ground Cover for Terrariums and Paludariums

Selaginella Uncinata, commonly known as Blue Peacock Fern or Peacock Spikemoss, is one of the most visually striking foliage plants available in the terrarium and vivarium hobby. Despite its common name, it is neither a true fern nor a moss. It belongs to an ancient group of plants known as lycophytes and is native to the shaded forests of southern China.

The plant is highly prized for its unique metallic blue-green iridescence, which appears to shimmer under proper lighting conditions. This remarkable coloration makes it a standout choice for tropical terrariums, paludariums, vivariums, and humid indoor plant displays. Its creeping growth habit allows it to form dense carpets of vibrant foliage, creating a lush forest-floor appearance.

Appearance and Growth Habit

Blue Peacock Fern produces delicate, feathery stems covered with small overlapping leaves. Under shaded conditions, the foliage develops an iridescent blue sheen that shifts between blue, turquoise, and green depending on the viewing angle and light intensity.

The plant spreads horizontally across the substrate, forming a dense mat that can cover large areas over time. Its soft texture and vibrant coloration make it an excellent foreground or ground-cover plant in tropical setups.

Key Features

Stunning metallic blue-green foliage

Dense creeping growth habit

Excellent terrarium ground cover

Unique iridescent coloration

Ancient lycophyte species

Suitable for tropical vivariums and paludariums

Care Requirements

Light

Blue Peacock Fern prefers low to medium indirect light.

Bright indirect light promotes healthy growth

Avoid direct sunlight

Lower light conditions often enhance blue coloration

Watering

Consistent moisture is essential.

Keep substrate evenly moist

Never allow soil to dry completely

Avoid waterlogged conditions to prevent root rot

Humidity

High humidity is crucial for success.

Ideal humidity: 70–100%

Perfect for closed terrariums

Thrives in paludariums and humid plant cabinets

Temperature

The ideal temperature range is between 18°C and 28°C.

Stable warm conditions encourage vigorous growth and vibrant coloration.

Substrate Requirements

Selaginella Uncinata grows best in a moisture-retentive yet well-draining substrate.

Recommended Mix

Coco peat or peat moss

Sphagnum moss

Fine orchid bark

Leaf litter

Perlite for aeration

The substrate should remain moist while allowing adequate airflow around the roots.

Terrarium and Paludarium Use

Blue Peacock Fern is considered one of the best carpeting plants for tropical terrariums. 

Its spreading habit helps create a natural rainforest appearance and fills empty spaces with vibrant foliage.

For hobbyists looking to add unusual color and texture to their terrariums or paludariums, Selaginella Uncinata (Blue Peacock Fern) is one of the most captivating foliage plants available.