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Description
Dryopteris Formosana, also known as Formosan Wood Fern, is a species of fern that belongs to the Dryopteridaceae family. It is native to Taiwan and can be found growing in the mountainous regions of the country. This fern is a popular ornamental plant because of its attractive fronds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Dryopteridaceae |
| Genus | Dryopteris |
Appearance
The Dryopteris Formosana has fronds that can grow up to 60cm in length and 15cm in width. The fronds are a bright green color and have a triangular shape with a pointed tip. The leaflets are finely divided and have a serrated edge, giving the fronds a delicate appearance. The fronds grow in a clump and are held upright by a short, dark brown stalk.
Care Guide
The Dryopteris Formosana is an easy fern to grow and care for. Here are some tips on how to keep it healthy:
- Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant the fern in a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The Dryopteris Formosana prefers partial to full shade. It can also tolerate some morning sun.
- Hardiness Zones: This fern is hardy in zones 7-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Dryopteris Formosana is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and scale insects. To prevent these pests, keep the plant in a humid environment and regularly mist the leaves. If you notice an infestation, use an insecticidal soap to control the problem.
Habitat
The Dryopteris Formosana is native to Taiwan and can be found growing in the mountainous regions of the country. It prefers to grow in shaded areas, such as under trees or in the understory of a forest. It can also grow in rocky crevices and on moist, shaded cliffs.
Question and Answer
- Q: Can the Dryopteris Formosana be grown indoors?
- A: Yes, this fern can be grown indoors as long as it is kept in a humid environment with indirect light.
- Q: How often should I fertilize my Dryopteris Formosana?
- A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
- Q: What is the ideal temperature for the Dryopteris Formosana?
- A: This fern prefers temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C).
- Q: Can the Dryopteris Formosana tolerate drought?
- A: No, this fern prefers consistently moist soil and cannot tolerate drought.
Related Plants
- Dryopteris erythrosora (Autumn Fern)
- Dryopteris filix-mas (Male Fern)
- Dryopteris marginalis (Marginal Wood Fern)
References
- “Dryopteris Formosana,” Missouri Botanical Garden, accessed August 19, 2021, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=m330.
- “Dryopteris Formosana,” Plant Delights Nursery, accessed August 19, 2021, https://www.plantdelights.com/products/dryopteris-formosana.
- “Dryopteris Formosana,” Royal Horticultural Society, accessed August 19, 2021, https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/19185/Dryopteris-formosana/Details.
