Species PlantsRock Spikemoss

Rock Spikemoss

Selaginella rupestris

UncommonPlant
Illustration of Rock Spikemoss (Selaginella rupestris)

Rock Spikemoss is a small, moss-like plant with a distinctive, spiky appearance. It thrives in rocky, dry environments and is known for its ability to survive in harsh conditions. This plant is a member of the ancient group of vascular plants known as lycophytes.

Habitat
It grows on rocky outcrops and dry, open woods.
Diet
Spikemosses are not directly consumed by wildlife but provide ground cover and habitat for small insects.
How common
Uncommon

Best time to see a Rock Spikemoss

The best time to see a Rock Spikemoss is April–August, when about 63% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 2,287 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

Not certain it is a Rock Spikemoss? What plant is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.

Recent Rock Spikemoss sightings near you

Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.

Spot a Rock Spikemoss? Identify it instantly.

Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal for an instant ID, its rarity, and a live map of where it is being seen near you.

Get Huck

Get an alert when a Rock Spikemoss is spotted

Pick a park, state, or city and we’ll email you when one turns up there. One check a day, only when there’s something new.

Free. Unsubscribe from any email. See our Privacy Policy.

Love plants? Get Huck field notes

Spotting tips, new species, and the best of what people are finding in the wild - straight to your inbox.

By subscribing you agree to receive Huck emails. No spam, unsubscribe anytime. See our Privacy Policy.

More plants

Rocky Mountain Bristlecone Pine
Rocky Mountain Bristlecone Pine
Pinus aristata
Rocky Mountain Juniper
Rocky Mountain Juniper
Juniperus scopulorum
Rocky Mountain Maple
Rocky Mountain Maple
Acer glabrum
Rocky Mountain Penstemon
Rocky Mountain Penstemon
Penstemon strictus
Rocky Mountain Sage
Rocky Mountain Sage
Salvia reflexa
Rose Pink
Rose Pink
Sabatia angularis
Rose Pogonia
Rose Pogonia
Pogonia ophioglossoides
Rose Verbena
Rose Verbena
Glandularia canadensis