Contents
Description
Christella parasitica, commonly known as the parasitic fern, is a unique plant that belongs to the family Thelypteridaceae. It is native to Southeast Asia and can be found in countries such as Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. This fern is characterized by its unusual growing habit, as it grows on the stems and branches of other plants, hence its common name.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Thelypteridales |
| Family | Thelypteridaceae |
| Genus | Christella |
Appearance
The parasitic fern has long, narrow fronds that can reach up to 60 cm in length. The fronds are pinnate, meaning they have leaflets arranged on either side of the stem. The leaflets are oblong in shape and have a glossy, dark green color. The spores of the fern are located on the underside of the fronds and are arranged in rows.
Care Guide
Christella parasitica is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does require some attention to ensure its optimum growth. Here are some care tips to keep in mind:
- Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the fern regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.
- Fertilization: Feed the fern with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
- Soil: Plant the fern in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The parasitic fern prefers partial shade to full shade. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves.
- Hardiness Zones: Christella parasitica is hardy in USDA zones 9 through 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The parasitic fern is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can occasionally be affected by mealybugs, scale insects, or spider mites. To prevent infestations, inspect the fern regularly and treat it with an insecticidal soap if necessary. Overwatering can also lead to root rot, so make sure to avoid waterlogging the soil.
Habitat
Christella parasitica is native to the rainforests of Southeast Asia, where it grows on the branches and trunks of other trees. It is an epiphyte, meaning it grows on other plants without taking nutrients from them. The fern can also be found in other tropical regions, such as Africa and South America.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Christella parasitica be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the parasitic fern can be grown indoors as long as it is placed in a location that receives adequate light and humidity.
Q: Is Christella parasitica a fast-growing plant?
A: The growth rate of the fern varies depending on the growing conditions, but it is generally considered a moderate grower.
Q: How often should I fertilize Christella parasitica?
A: Feed the fern with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
Q: Can Christella parasitica be propagated from spores?
A: Yes, the fern can be propagated from spores, but it can be a slow process. It is easier to propagate the plant through division.
Related Plants
- Christella dentata
- Christella hispidula
- Christella parasitica var. pubescens
- Christella simplex
References
- Flora of China. (n.d.). Christella parasitica (Linn.) H. Lev. & V. L. Dang. Retrieved from http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=2&taxon_id=200004347
- Huxley, A. (Ed.). (1992). The new Royal Horticultural Society dictionary of gardening. London: Macmillan.
- Maarten J. M. Christenhusz, Xian-Chun Zhang & Harald Schneider. (2011). A linear sequence of extant families and genera of lycophytes and ferns. Phytotaxa, 19(1), 7-54.
