Little club moss is a common name used to refer to various species of ground-dwelling plants that belong to the genus Selaginella in the family Selaginellaceae. This group of plants is characterized by small, prostrate stems and spore-producing structures called strobili. They are commonly found in moist and shaded areas, such as forests, woodlands, and shaded rock crevices.
Little club mosses typically have evergreen, needle-like leaves that are arranged in a tight spiral along the stem. These leaves are generally small and scale-like, giving the plants a delicate and fern-like appearance. The stems of little club mosses are often horizontal, sending out branches that spread across the ground and form dense mats.
These plants reproduce through spores, which are produced in the strobili. The strobili are cone-like structures that can be found at the tip of some of the stems and branches. When mature, these structures release spores that disperse in the surrounding area, allowing for the development of new plants.
Little club mosses have been used for centuries in traditional medicine and folklore due to their potential medicinal properties. Extracts from these plants have been utilized for their diuretic, astringent, and antiviral properties.
In horticulture, some species of little club mosses are cultivated as ornamental plants for their unique and intricate foliage. They are often used in terrariums, dish gardens, or as ground cover in shaded areas due to their ability to thrive in low-light conditions and moist environments.
Overall, little club mosses are small, ground-dwelling plants with needle-like leaves and spore-producing structures. They can be found in shaded areas and have both traditional medicinal uses and horticultural appeal.
