Contents
Description
Didymoglossum Tahitense is a rare fern species native to Tahiti and other islands in French Polynesia. This epiphytic fern grows on trees and rocks in the rainforest canopy and is known for its unique fronds that have a distinctive undulating shape. The fronds are dark green and glossy, with a length of up to 50cm and a width of 10cm.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Hymenophyllaceae |
| Genus | Didymoglossum |
Appearance
Didymoglossum Tahitense has unique fronds that are undulating and have a glossy, dark green color. The fronds can reach up to 50cm in length and 10cm in width. The fern has a creeping rhizome that produces small, glossy, dark green leaves that are 1-2 cm long.
Care Guide
Didymoglossum Tahitense requires a humid environment and should be kept in a well-draining soil mix. It should be watered regularly but not overwatered, as this can lead to root rot. It prefers bright, indirect sunlight and should be protected from direct sunlight. It is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Didymoglossum Tahitense is susceptible to scale insects and spider mites. These can be controlled with a gentle insecticidal soap or neem oil. It is also prone to fungal diseases such as leaf spot and root rot, which can be prevented by ensuring the plant is not overwatered and has good ventilation.
Habitat
Didymoglossum Tahitense is native to French Polynesia and grows in the rainforest canopy on trees and rocks. It prefers a humid environment and can also be grown in a terrarium or greenhouse.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Didymoglossum Tahitense?
A: Didymoglossum Tahitense should be watered regularly but not overwatered. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Q: Can Didymoglossum Tahitense be grown outdoors?
A: Didymoglossum Tahitense is hardy in USDA zones 10-11 and can be grown outdoors in a humid, shaded area.
Q: What is the ideal temperature range for Didymoglossum Tahitense?
A: Didymoglossum Tahitense prefers a warm and humid environment, with a temperature range of 20°C to 30°C.
Q: How can I propagate Didymoglossum Tahitense?
A: Didymoglossum Tahitense can be propagated by spores or by dividing the rhizome.
Related Plants
- Didymoglossum siccum
- Didymoglossum petersii
- Didymoglossum angustifolium
References
- Flora of French Polynesia – Didymoglossum Tahitense
- Missouri Botanical Garden – Didymoglossum Tahitense
- Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew – Didymoglossum Tahitense
