When I first brought home an Arborvitae Fern plant, also known as Selaginella Braunii, I didn’t expect it to be as captivating and different from typical ferns. Over time, I learned so much through trial and error, and today, I want to share everything I’ve learned in the form of frequently asked questions—answered from my own experience.
Plant Family: Selaginellaceae – 743 Species in Genus Selaginella
What Is the Arborvitae Fern?
Let’s start with the basics. The Arborvitae Fern, or Selaginella Braunii, is not a true fern. It belongs to the Selaginellaceae family and is classified as a spikemoss. However, its finely dissected, lush foliage makes it look like a fern, which is why most people group it with shade-loving ferns.
It has a compact, bushy growth with glossy, deep green fronds that are arranged in a fan-like, arborvitae-like pattern—hence the name. I’ve also experimented with Selaginella Pallescens, which is a close cousin and features lighter green, almost lime-colored fronds. Both are stunning, but Selaginella Braunii has a richer, more dramatic presence indoors.
How Do I Care for an Arborvitae Fern?
Arborvitae fern care is all about replicating a forest floor. In my experience, the plant thrives when you provide the following:
- Light: Indirect, filtered light is best. Direct sun burns the foliage. I keep mine a few feet from a north-facing window.
- Water: Keep the soil consistently moist but never soggy. Drying out even once can cause damage. I mist mine daily and water lightly every two days.
- Humidity: This is critical. Arborvitae ferns love humidity. I group mine with other tropical plants and run a small humidifier in winter.
- Soil: A peat-based mix with good drainage has worked best for me. I use a blend of peat moss, perlite, and orchid bark.
- Temperature: They prefer temperatures between 60°F to 75°F. Keep them away from cold drafts or heating vents.
This combination has been my success formula for years.
Is Arborvitae Fern Good Indoors?
Absolutely. The Arborvitae Fern plant makes a fantastic houseplant. It’s compact, elegant, and easy to place in small spaces. I keep one on my desk and another on a bathroom shelf, where the humidity naturally stays high. It adds a peaceful, forest-like feel wherever I put it.
What’s the Difference Between Selaginella Braunii and Selaginella Pallescens?
Good question—I’ve grown both. Selaginella Braunii has darker, richer green fronds and a more upright habit. Selaginella Pallescens is lighter and softer in appearance, often with slightly trailing fronds. In terms of care, they are nearly identical, but I’ve found Pallescens to be a little more delicate when it comes to moisture fluctuations.
How Do You Handle Arborvitae Ferns in Winter?
Arborvitae fern in winter requires some adjustments. I reduce watering just slightly but increase humidity. Indoor heating dries the air, so I mist more frequently or move the plant into a bathroom or greenhouse. I also avoid fertilizing in winter—let the plant rest.
Be aware that these plants are not frost-hardy. I never leave my arborvitae ferns outside once temperatures drop below 50°F.
Do Arborvitae Ferns Need Fertilizer?
Yes, but very lightly. During the growing season (spring through early fall), I fertilize every 4–6 weeks with a diluted liquid houseplant fertilizer (half-strength). Don’t overdo it—this plant is sensitive to excess salts.
Are Arborvitae Ferns Toxic?
From what I’ve gathered, Arborvitae Ferns are generally considered non-toxic, which is one of the reasons I feel comfortable having them around pets and children. However, I always recommend verifying with your local extension service or veterinarian, just to be sure.
Can Arborvitae Fern Be Propagated?
Yes, and it’s surprisingly easy. I’ve had success with division. Gently separate a healthy cluster from the parent plant during repotting and place it in fresh soil. Keep the new section moist and humid until established.
Final Thoughts: Why I Keep Coming Back to Selaginella Braunii
To me, Arborvitae Fern Selaginella Braunii is one of those underrated gems in the indoor plant world. It looks ancient—almost prehistoric—with its finely detailed fronds and layered, textured form. It’s not as needy as it seems once you dial in the routine.
It doesn’t scream for attention, but it rewards care with lush, vibrant growth. And for anyone who loves a jungle vibe, few plants do it better in a compact form.
If i die, water my plants!
