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Rock Spikemoss
Selaginella tamariscina
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A lycophyte (Lycopodiophyta, not a true fern) growing on dry rocks in Japanese mountains. Known as a 'resurrection plant'—its fronds curl up during drought and unfurl when rehydrated. Cultivated as bonsai and ornamental.
Identification Points
- ✓Plant curls into a ball when desiccated
- ✓Green fronds unfurl when water is provided
- ✓Two types of leaves (lateral and median) arranged alternately
Habitat
Dry rocks and rock walls in mountain areas
Season
Year-round (evergreen)
Morphological TraitsAI-estimated, needs verification
Growth form
Herb
Phylogenetic Positionイワヒバ科 →
Phylogenetic Position
Vascular plants > Lycophyta > Lycopodiopsida > Selaginellales > Selaginellaceae
Divergence Era
Carboniferous (approx. 350 million years ago onward)
Evolution Notes
Selaginellaceae belongs to Lycopodiophyta, a separate lineage from ferns. In the Carboniferous period, related plants (such as Lepidodendron) were giant trees. Modern species are small herbs but retain heterospory, an important evolutionary trait.
View on evolution timeline →Sources & References
AI-generated, needs verification