Frosty Fern Selaginella - Pet Safe Non-Toxic Air Purifying Houseplant
Frosty Fern Selaginella - Pet Safe Non-Toxic Air Purifying Houseplant
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Botanical Name: Selaginella kraussiana 'Variegata'
Common Names: Frosty Fern • White-Tipped Selaginella • Variegated Spike Moss • Trailing Spike Moss
The Frosty Fern (Selaginella kraussiana) brings ethereal beauty to any space with its delicate, moss-like foliage adorned with stunning silvery-white tips that create the appearance of being kissed by frost. This charming houseplant features tiny, scale-like leaves that form dense, cushiony mounds or graceful trailing cascades, adding a touch of woodland enchantment and textural interest to your indoor garden.
This captivating plant combines mystical beauty with remarkable air-purifying abilities, making it perfect for creating serene, healthy indoor environments. Enjoy the soothing, forest-like atmosphere this humidity-loving gem provides while naturally cleansing your air - all with complete peace of mind around your treasured pets and family.
Complete Care Guide
- Medium to low indirect light preserves the delicate silvery-white tips
- North-facing windows or filtered light conditions are ideal
- Avoid direct sunlight which can scorch the delicate foliage
- Thrives under fluorescent lights, perfect for offices and bathrooms
- Keep soil consistently moist but never waterlogged
- Water when top surface feels slightly dry to the touch
- Use filtered, distilled, or rainwater for best results
- Mist regularly to maintain the humid microclimate it craves
- High humidity essential: 60-80% for optimal silvery coloration
- Temperature range: 60-75°F (15-24°C) with cool, consistent conditions
- Use humidity trays, terrariums, or humidifiers for best results
- Excellent choice for humid bathrooms and conservatories
- Use well-draining, peat-based potting mix that retains moisture
- Ensure excellent drainage while maintaining consistent moisture
- Feed monthly with diluted liquid fertilizer during growing season
- Repot rarely - prefers to be slightly root-bound
- Easily propagated from stem cuttings or division
- Pinch growing tips to maintain compact, bushy growth
- Excellent for terrariums and closed growing environments
- Trim any brown or damaged foliage to maintain appearance
Styling Ideas for Your Frosty Fern
Shipping & Potting Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Frosty Fern actually a fern? ▼
Despite its name, Frosty Fern is not a true fern but rather a spike moss (Selaginella). It gets its "fern" name due to its delicate, feathery appearance that resembles fern foliage, but it's actually more closely related to mosses and club mosses.
Why are my Frosty Fern's white tips turning green? ▼
The silvery-white tips may fade or turn green due to insufficient humidity, too much direct light, or stress. Increase humidity levels, provide filtered light, and maintain consistent moisture to preserve the beautiful frosted appearance.
Is Frosty Fern difficult to care for? ▼
Frosty Fern requires specific conditions (high humidity and consistent moisture) but isn't difficult once you understand its needs. It's perfect for terrariums, humid bathrooms, or with the help of a humidifier.
Is this plant safe for pets? ▼
Yes! Frosty Fern (Selaginella kraussiana) is non-toxic to cats and dogs, making it a safe choice for pet-loving households who want to enjoy its ethereal silvery beauty without worry.
Can Frosty Fern be grown in a terrarium? ▼
Absolutely! Frosty Fern is one of the best plants for terrariums. It thrives in the high humidity and consistent moisture that closed terrarium environments provide, creating magical miniature landscapes.
