Selaginella grandis

Selaginella grandis belongs to the Selaginellaceae family and the group of Lycophytes. This is an ancient department of vascular plants that have a close evolutionary relationship with mosses and ferns. Like many types of this genus, Selaginella grandis is known for their ability to grow under extremely moist conditions and to be characterized by their filigree, often moss -like structure.

Morphology

Selaginella grandis is a multi -year, herbaceous plant that typically grows into dense upholstery and can reach a height of up to 60 cm. Her growth is reminiscent of ferns, although it is not part of the same botanical group. The stems are thin and branched and form creeping or upright structures that are close to small, scale -like leaves.

The leaves of Selaginella grandis are arranged in a spiral arrangement along the stems and are characterized by a leathery texture and a deep green color. They are relatively small, only a few millimeters long, and give the plant a moss -like appearance. These leaves are anisophyll, which means that the leaves on the tops of the stems are larger than the leaves on the underside. This leaf structure is a typical feature of the genus Selaginella.

The plant has a fine root system that usually remains superficial and is well anchored in moist, shady areas. Selaginella grandis is known for their ability to multiply through spores, a reproductive method that is typical of lycophytes. The sporangia in which the spores are produced are located on the tips of the leaves and are formed in special structures, the so -called Strobili.

Distribution and habitat

Selaginella grandis comes from Borneo and grows there in the tropical rainforests. She prefers shady, moist locations, often near rivers or in dense forest soils. This plant often grows in humus floors and on rocks, where it adapts to the microclimate of damp, shady environments. Through her ability to adapt to moist conditions, she plays an important role in the vegetation of these areas.

Her ability to establish yourself in moist habitats makes Selaginella grandis an important plant for stabilizing soils in erosion areas. In addition, it contributes to the general biodiversity of the damp forest floors, since it acts as a floor tank and is in symbiosis with microorganisms in the ground.

Ecological meaning

As a member of the Lycophytes, Selaginella grandis has an important ecological function in its natural habitat. It plays a role in the nutrient cycle and contributes to moisture storage in the soil. Their dense growth helps to protect the soil and prevent water and nutrients from being lost. By forming spores, the plant contributes to the preservation of its population and to diversify the variety of plants in the areas it populated.

In addition, it serves as a habitat for various small animals, such as insects and other invertebrate animals that find protection and food in the damp areas in which it grows.

Reproduction and multiplication

The reproduction of Selaginella grandis is mainly via spores that are formed in the sporangies. The sporangia are in the leaf axils and develop in a special structure, the Strobili, which are at the ends of the stems. The spores are haploid and germs when they fall on a suitable, damp surface to a new plant. This process enables the plant to multiply both sexually and asexual.

In addition to the increase in spore, Selaginella grandis can also multiply vegetatively through the division or root formation of side branches, which enables it to quickly colonize large areas in her natural habitat.

Use and cultivation

In the garden culture, Selaginella grandis is estimated due to its attractive, moss -like appearance and its tolerance to shady, moist conditions. It is well suited as a ground cover in damp gardens or as an ornamental plant in terrariums and botanical collections. Due to its sensitivity to direct sunlight and dry conditions, it must be carefully maintained in order to ensure optimal growth conditions.

The plant needs moist, humus -rich soils and should be planted in areas with indirect light or partial shade. A high humidity is crucial for your well -being, and it should be watered regularly to prevent drying out.