Moss fern (Selaginella kraussiana), also called spikemoss, is a relative of other ferns, but as the name suggests, it shares many characteristics with types of moss. There are many moss fern uses, such as a turf alternative and a fern for shady landscapes, and you can also enjoy the plant as a houseplant. The plant is native to Africa and grows as a perennial in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 11 and 12.