Arborvitae Fern

When discussing "arborvitae fern," it's crucial to understand that it's not actually a true fern. It's properly known as Selaginella braunii, and it belongs to the spikemoss family. Here's a comprehensive overview:  

Key Characteristics:

Appearance:
It features lacy, scaly, frond-like leaves that resemble those of an arborvitae or cedar tree, hence the common name.  
It forms a slowly spreading, mounding ground cover.  
Not a True Fern:
It's important to emphasize that Selaginella braunii is a spikemoss, an ancient relative of ferns, not a fern itself.  
Evergreen:
In warmer climates, it can retain its green foliage throughout the year.  
Preferred Environment:

Shade to Part Shade:
It thrives in shaded or partially shaded areas.  
Moist, Well-Drained Soil:
It prefers consistently moist but well-drained soil, rich in organic matter.  
Humidity:
It appreciates humidity, making it suitable for woodland gardens and terrariums.  
Garden Uses:

Ground Cover:
It's excellent for use as a ground cover in shady areas.
Woodland Gardens:
It adds texture and interest to woodland gardens.  
Containers:
It can be grown in containers, both indoors and outdoors