Frosty Fern: Overview

The Frosty Fern (Selaginella kraussiana) is also known as Selaginella martensii. Furthermore, it’s commonly called Krauss Spike Moss or Krauss Clubmoss and it is a delightful holiday favorite. Despite its name, it’s not a true fern but a lycophyte, known for its lush green foliage tipped with a frosty, silver-white sheen that adds a festive touch. 

This ornamental plant is small fern, making it perfect for indoor spaces, table decorations, or holiday centerpieces. Originating from Central and South America, Selaginella fern thrives in hardy zones 9-11 and enjoys indirect sunlight and moderate care.

Symbolizing resilience and renewal, this holiday plant is a wonderful addition to any plant lover’s collection. It’s also non-toxic, making it a pet-friendly option. For more fern inspiration, check out the Heart Leaf Fern (Hemionitis arifolia) and the Staghorn Fern (Platycerium bifurcatum) in Lively Root’s indoor fern collection, both of which are equally charming choices. 

Frosty Fern: Benefits

• It helps purify indoor air
• A festive compact plant perfect for holiday decor in small living rooms
• Makes a thoughtful holiday gift to spread joy among family and friends
• Easy-care plant ideal for beginners
• Pet-friendly and safe for households with animals

Frosty Fern Selaginella: Care Guide

Selaginella Frosty is an easy-care plant, making it a perfect choice for those new to plant care. With a preference for moderate light and consistent moisture, this festive fern thrives in the right indoor conditions. 

Watering and Humidity

Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy, as Selaginella plants are sensitive to overwatering. Water when the top layer begins to dry, and mist frequently to maintain high humidity. Placing the plant near a humidifier or on a pebble tray can help mimic its tropical environment. 

Light and Temperature

Bright, indirect light is ideal, but avoid exposing your Frosty Fern to harsh sunlight, which can scorch its delicate foliage. Maintain indoor temperatures between 50–75°F, and keep your Selaginella Frosty Fern away from heaters or cold drafts to avoid stress.

Soil and Repotting

Plant your Frosty Fern Spike Moss in a well-draining, peat-based potting mix to retain moisture while preventing root rot. Repot every 1-2 years, preferably in spring, to refresh the soil and give the roots room to grow. 

Feeding, Pruning, and Propagation

Feed monthly during the growing season with a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer to promote healthy growth. Prune regularly to remove dead or yellowing fronds and maintain the plant’s tidy appearance. Frosty Ferns can be propagated by dividing clumps during repotting. Ensure each section has healthy roots and fronds, and plant them in fresh, moist soil. 

Common Issues and Solutions

Yellowing or browning leaves may indicate low humidity or overwatering. Increase misting and check the soil moisture levels. While pest issues are uncommon, inspect regularly for mealybugs or spider mites and treat them with insecticidal soap if they are detected. 

Frosty Fern Plant: Placement, Companion & Alternative Plants

The Frosty Fern is a versatile and festive addition to your indoor garden. Its delicate, frosted foliage makes it a stunning decorative plant, perfect for holiday displays in living rooms. Pair it with other indoor plants for a lush, pet-friendly arrangement, or showcase it solo in a prominent spot. 

Best Locations & Uses

• Thrives in the humidity of a bathroom or adds charm as a low-maintenance bedroom plant.
• Safe for homes with cats and dogs, making it a worry-free choice.
• Ideal for porches in warmer climates as long as it’s shielded from direct sunlight.
• Perfect for those who enjoy maintaining unique and delicate plants.
• A thoughtful and festive Christmas gift for employees and clients

Companion Plants

Pair your Frosty Fern with other festive plants to create a lush and seasonal display. 

• Red Poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima): The Red Poinsettia is a classic holiday plant with vibrant bracts that perfectly complement the fern's frosted look.
• Rosemary Christmas Tree (Rosmarinus officinalis): The Rosemary Christmas Tree is a fragrant and festive option that adds structure and holiday charm to your arrangement.
• Pink Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera bridgesii ‘Pink’): The Pink Christmas Cactus is a blooming beauty that brings soft color and cheer to your holiday decor.   

Alternative Plants

If the Frosty Fern plant isn’t your choice, consider these stunning alternatives to bring festive cheer to your space:

• Red Lip Moth Orchid (Phalaenopsis spp.): The Red Lip Moth Orchid is an elegant, long-lasting orchid with bold bicolor blooms, ideal for creating a festive focal point in your home.  
• Mistletoe Cactus (Rhipsalis baccifera): The Mistletoe Cactus is a unique trailing plant with delicate stems that add a whimsical touch to any festive arrangement. 
• Flamingo Flower (Anthurium spp. - Red): Known for its bright red blooms, the Flamingo Flower brings tropical flair and holiday spirit to your home.

Order a Frosty Fern From LiveLy Root - the Perfect Holiday Plant

Order your Frosty Fern from Lively Root today and bring home the perfect holiday plant to brighten your space or gift to loved ones this season.