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Description
Botrychium Spathulatum, commonly known as Little Grape Fern, is a perennial fern species that belongs to the Ophioglossaceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. It usually grows in open woodlands, meadows, and rocky slopes. The fern has a small, delicate appearance and can grow up to 15cm in height.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Order | Ophioglossales |
| Family | Ophioglossaceae |
| Genus | Botrychium |
Appearance
The Little Grape Fern has a small, delicate appearance and is usually less than 15cm in height. The fronds are usually light green and have a glossy texture. The fronds are divided into two parts, the sterile and the fertile fronds. The sterile fronds are usually larger and have a broader shape than the fertile fronds. The fertile fronds are small and narrow and are usually found at the base of the sterile fronds. The fern has a rhizome that is covered with scales.
Care Guide
Water: Botrychium Spathulatum prefers moist soil but can tolerate periods of drought. Water the fern regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization: The fern does not require fertilization, but you can add a slow-release fertilizer during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
Soil: The fern prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in a variety of soil types, including loam, sand, and clay.
Sunlight: The fern prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight as it can scorch the fronds.
Hardiness Zones: Botrychium Spathulatum is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Botrychium Spathulatum is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can occasionally suffer from fungal diseases such as rust and leaf spot. To prevent fungal infections, avoid overhead watering and ensure good air circulation around the fern.
Habitat
Botrychium Spathulatum is native to North America and can be found in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. It usually grows in open woodlands, meadows, and rocky slopes. The fern prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Botrychium Spathulatum be grown indoors?
A: No, the fern prefers to grow outdoors in a natural habitat.
Q: How often should I water Botrychium Spathulatum?
A: Water the fern regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Botrychium Spathulatum?
A: The fern is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Q: What is the size of Botrychium Spathulatum?
A: The fern is usually less than 15cm in height.
Related Plants
- Botrychium Oneidense
- Botrychium Lunaria
- Botrychium Multifidum
References
- USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. (n.d.). Botrychium spathulatum. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=bosp5
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Botrychium spathulatum. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=275515&isprofile=0&
- Illinois Wildflowers. (n.d.). Botrychium spathulatum. Retrieved from https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/grasses/plants/little_grapefern.htm
