Contents
Description
Dryopteris Villarii, also known as Villar’s Wood Fern, is a deciduous fern species that belongs to the Dryopteridaceae family. It is native to the mountainous regions of Europe, particularly in the Pyrenees, where it can be found growing in rocky and moist areas.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Dryopteridaceae |
| Genus | Dryopteris |
Appearance
Dryopteris Villarii has a unique appearance that sets it apart from other fern species. Its fronds are triangular-shaped and divided into three lobes, with the central lobe being the longest. The fronds can grow up to 60cm in length and have a dark green color. The stem is covered in brown scales, and the underside of the fronds has brown spores that are visible during the summer months.
Care Guide
Dryopteris Villarii is relatively easy to care for and can thrive in most conditions. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: Plant in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Plant in partial to full shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Dryopteris Villarii is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dryopteris Villarii can be susceptible to various pests and diseases, including:
- Scale insects: These pests can cause yellowing and wilting of fronds. Use an insecticidal soap to treat.
- Slugs and snails: These pests can eat holes in the fronds. Use slug and snail bait to control.
- Leaf spot: This disease can cause brown spots on fronds. Remove infected fronds and avoid overhead watering.
Habitat
Dryopteris Villarii is native to the Pyrenees, where it can be found growing in rocky and moist areas, such as crevices and stream banks. It prefers partial to full shade and well-draining soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Dryopteris Villarii grow in full sun?
A: No, it prefers partial to full shade.
Q: Does Dryopteris Villarii prefer moist or dry soil?
A: It prefers consistently moist soil.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Dryopteris Villarii?
A: It is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Q: How often should Dryopteris Villarii be fertilized?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Related Plants
- Dryopteris erythrosora
- Dryopteris filix-mas
- Dryopteris intermedia
References
- “Dryopteris Villarii (Villar’s Wood Fern).” Plant Lust. https://plantlust.com/plants/26828/dryopteris-villarii/
- “Dryopteris Villarii.” Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=j770
- “Dryopteris Villarii.” The Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/8227/Dryopteris-Villarii/Details
