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Description
The Botrychium Alaskense, also known as the Alaskan Grapefern, is a small fern that belongs to the Ophioglossaceae family. It is native to Alaska and can be found in other parts of North America, such as Canada and the Northwestern United States. This fern is a unique and interesting addition to any garden, with its delicate fronds and intricate structures.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Ophioglossopsida |
| Order | Ophioglossales |
| Family | Ophioglossaceae |
| Genus | Botrychium |
Appearance
The Botrychium Alaskense has a unique and intricate appearance. Its fronds are delicate and lacy, with a bright green color. The fern’s stem is slender and brownish-red, and its roots are thin and wiry. The fronds of the Botrychium Alaskense can grow up to 20 cm long and are divided into several segments that are arranged in a pinwheel-like fashion. The sporangia – the structures that produce spores – are located at the base of the fronds, and are arranged in a grape-like cluster.
Care Guide
The Botrychium Alaskense is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this fern:
- Water: The Botrychium Alaskense prefers moist soil, but it is important not to overwater it. Water the plant when the soil feels dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: This fern does not require fertilization, but you can apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to encourage healthy growth.
- Soil: The Botrychium Alaskense prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of peat moss, sand, and perlite is ideal.
- Sunlight: This fern prefers partial shade or dappled sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, as this can scorch the fronds.
- Hardiness Zones: The Botrychium Alaskense can grow in USDA hardiness zones 3-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Botrychium Alaskense is generally a pest- and disease-free plant. However, here are some common pests and diseases that can affect this fern:
- Slugs and snails: These pests can eat the fronds of the Botrychium Alaskense. Use slug bait or handpick them off the plant.
- Root rot: Overwatering can cause root rot. Make sure the soil is well-draining and do not overwater the plant.
- Scale insects: These pests can suck the sap from the fronds, causing them to turn yellow and wilt. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
Habitat
The Botrychium Alaskense is native to Alaska and can be found in other parts of North America, such as Canada and the Northwestern United States. This fern prefers moist, shady areas such as forests, wetlands, and meadows. It grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Botrychium Alaskense a rare plant?
A: The Botrychium Alaskense is not considered a rare plant, but it is not commonly seen in cultivation.
Q: Can the Botrychium Alaskense be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the Botrychium Alaskense can be grown indoors in a bright, humid location.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Botrychium Alaskense?
A: You can apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to encourage healthy growth.
Q: Can the Botrychium Alaskense be propagated from spores?
A: Yes, the Botrychium Alaskense can be propagated from spores. Collect the spores when the sporangia turn brown and dry, and sow them in a mixture of peat moss and sand. Keep the soil moist and the container covered with plastic wrap until the spores germinate.
Related Plants
- Botrychium lunaria (Moonwort Grapefern)
- Botrychium simplex (Little Grapefern)
- Botrychium matricariifolium (Daisy-leaved Grapefern)
References
- Flora of North America Editorial Committee, eds. 1993+. Flora of North America North of Mexico. 16+ vols. New York and Oxford.
- USDA, NRCS. 2016. The PLANTS Database (http://plants.usda.gov, 18 January 2016). National Plant Data Team, Greensboro, NC 27401-4901 USA.
