Selaginella Willdenowii - Blue Peacock Fern

Selaginella Willdenowii (Blue Peacock Fern) – Rare Iridescent Tropical Terrarium Plant

Selaginella willdenowii, commonly known as Blue Peacock Fern, is one of the most extraordinary foliage plants available in the terrarium and vivarium hobby. Native to the humid tropical rainforests of Southeast Asia, this ancient lycophyte is celebrated for its breathtaking metallic blue-green iridescence that shimmers across the foliage when viewed from different angles.

Despite its common name, Blue Peacock Fern is not a true fern. It belongs to the Selaginella family, a prehistoric group of plants that has existed for millions of years. Its unique coloration is a natural adaptation that allows the plant to capture and utilize limited light beneath dense rainforest canopies.

Appearance and Growth Habit

Selaginella Willdenowii features delicate branching stems covered with finely textured leaves that display a striking blue, turquoise, and emerald-green sheen. The iridescent effect becomes most visible under shaded conditions and high humidity.

Unlike many other Selaginella species, this plant develops a bushier and more upright growth habit while still producing creeping and climbing stems. Given proper support, it can climb moss poles, cork bark, driftwood, or terrarium backgrounds, creating a lush tropical appearance.

Key Features

Spectacular iridescent blue-green foliage

Rare and highly collectible tropical species

Ancient plant lineage dating back millions of years

Suitable for terrariums, vivariums, and plant cabinets

Excellent climbing and spreading growth habit

Unique rainforest understory plant

Care Requirements

Light

Blue Peacock Fern thrives in low to medium indirect light.

Bright indirect light promotes healthy growth

Deep shade enhances blue iridescence

Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch leaves

Watering

Consistent moisture is essential for long-term success.

Keep the substrate evenly moist

Never allow the soil to dry completely

Avoid standing water and waterlogged conditions

Humidity

High humidity is crucial.

Ideal humidity: 70–100%

Perfect for closed terrariums and vivariums

Thrives in humid plant cabinets and tropical greenhouses

Temperature

The ideal temperature range is 20°C to 30°C.

Stable warm temperatures help maintain vigorous growth and vibrant coloration.

Substrate Requirements

Selaginella Willdenowii prefers a loose, moisture-retentive substrate that provides excellent aeration.

Recommended Mix

Coco peat or peat moss

Sphagnum moss

Fine orchid bark

Perlite or pumice

Leaf litter for natural nutrient enrichment

The substrate should remain consistently moist while allowing oxygen to reach the roots.

Terrarium and Vivarium Applications

Blue Peacock Fern is one of the most desirable foliage plants for tropical displays.

Ideal Uses

Terrarium centerpiece plant

Vivarium background coverage

Tropical ground cover

Moss pole climber

Paludarium accent plant

Rainforest-themed plant collections

Its shimmering foliage creates a dramatic visual effect that few other plants can match.

For collectors seeking an unusual and visually striking foliage plant, Selaginella Willdenowii (Blue Peacock Fern) is an exceptional choice that brings a true rainforest atmosphere to any setup.