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Ruby Red Spikemoss foliage

Ruby Red Spikemoss foliage

(Photo courtesy of NetPS Plant Finder)

Other Names:  Arborvitae Fern, Clubmoss

Description:

A very attractive variety that produces spreading branches of fan-like leaves that are dark green on top, with deep ruby red undersides; perfect for containers or as a groundcover for shaded moist areas

Ornamental Features

Ruby Red Spikemoss' attractive ferny leaves remain dark green in color with curious ruby-red undersides throughout the year on a plant with a spreading habit of growth.

Landscape Attributes

Ruby Red Spikemoss is a dense herbaceous evergreen perennial with a ground-hugging habit of growth. Its relatively fine texture sets it apart from other garden plants with less refined foliage.

This is a relatively low maintenance plant, and should not require much pruning, except when necessary, such as to remove dieback. Gardeners should be aware of the following characteristic(s) that may warrant special consideration;

• Suckering

Ruby Red Spikemoss is recommended for the following landscape applications;

• Mass Planting
• Rock/Alpine Gardens
• Border Edging
• General Garden Use
• Groundcover

Planting & Growing

Ruby Red Spikemoss will grow to be only 6 inches tall at maturity, with a spread of 3 feet. When grown in masses or used as a bedding plant, individual plants should be spaced approximately 30 inches apart. It grows at a slow rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for approximately 10 years. As an evegreen perennial, this plant will typically keep its form and foliage year-round.

This plant does best in partial shade to shade. It prefers to grow in average to moist conditions, and shouldn't be allowed to dry out. It is not particular as to soil pH, but grows best in rich soils. It is somewhat tolerant of urban pollution. This is a selected variety of a species not originally from North America. It can be propagated by division; however, as a cultivated variety, be aware that it may be subject to certain restrictions or prohibitions on propagation.