Definition

Noun: 1. A type of vascular plant: Selaginella is the name of a genus of plants in the family Selaginellaceae. These are primitive, evergreen plants that resemble mosses but are more complex, having true roots, stems, and leaves. They are often called spike mosses or lesser clubmosses. 2. The sole genus of its family: In botanical classification, Selaginella is the only genus within the family Selaginellaceae.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The selaginella in the terrarium thrives in high humidity.
  • Botanists study Selaginella species to understand early plant evolution.
  • A common name for many selaginella plants is "resurrection plant" because some species can survive extreme dehydration.

Advanced Usage

• In scientific contexts: The term is used precisely to refer to members of the genus , distinguishing them from true mosses (Bryophytes) and other clubmosses (Lycopodium).
  • The research focused on the unique reproductive cycle of Selaginella.

Variants and Related Words

• Selaginellaceae (n): The plant family to which the genus belongs.
• Spike moss (n): A common name for plants in the genus.
• Little club moss (n): Another common name for these plants.

Synonyms

• Spike moss
• Lesser clubmoss

Notes on Meaning

• While often called "moss," is not a true moss. True mosses are non-vascular plants, whereas has a simple vascular system for transporting water and nutrients.
• The term specifically refers to the entire genus. Individual species have more specific names (e.g., , the resurrection plant).

Noun

1. type and sole genus of the Selaginellaceae; evergreen moss-like plants: spike moss and little club moss