Hymenophyllum Tunbrigense

Description

Hymenophyllum Tunbrigense, commonly known as the Tunbridge filmy fern, is an evergreen fern species that belongs to the family Hymenophyllaceae. It is native to southwestern Europe, including France, Spain, Portugal, and the United Kingdom. Hymenophyllum Tunbrigense thrives in damp and shady environments, such as rocky or wooded areas. It is a small fern that typically grows up to 20cm in height and 10cm in width.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukaryota
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Tracheophyta
Class	Polypodiopsida
Order	Hymenophyllales
Family	Hymenophyllaceae
Genus	Hymenophyllum

Appearance

The Tunbridge filmy fern has small fronds that are thin and delicate. The fronds are typically triangular or ovate in shape and have a bright green color. The leaves are translucent, giving them a filmy appearance, and they have a lacy texture. Hymenophyllum Tunbrigense produces spores on the undersides of the fronds, which are in turn covered by a thin membrane that forms a network of veins.

Care Guide

Hymenophyllum Tunbrigense is a relatively easy fern to care for. It requires a damp and shady environment, so it should be kept out of direct sunlight. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. Fertilization is not necessary, but a balanced liquid fertilizer can be applied once a month during the growing season. Hymenophyllum Tunbrigense is hardy to USDA zones 7-10, but it should be protected from frost and cold winds.

Common Pests & Diseases

Hymenophyllum Tunbrigense is generally pest and disease-free, but it is susceptible to spider mites and mealybugs. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is important to ensure that the soil is well-draining and that the plant is not sitting in standing water.

Habitat

Hymenophyllum Tunbrigense is native to southwestern Europe, where it grows in damp and shady environments such as rocky or wooded areas. It can be found on the banks of streams and rivers, as well as in crevices and rock faces. It prefers a humid climate with mild temperatures, making it well-suited to indoor cultivation in areas with similar conditions.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Hymenophyllum Tunbrigense a good plant for beginners?

A: Yes, Hymenophyllum Tunbrigense is a relatively easy fern to care for, making it a good choice for beginners.

Q: Can Hymenophyllum Tunbrigense tolerate direct sunlight?

A: No, Hymenophyllum Tunbrigense prefers a damp and shady environment and should be kept out of direct sunlight.

Q: How often should Hymenophyllum Tunbrigense be fertilized?

A: Hymenophyllum Tunbrigense does not require fertilization, but a balanced liquid fertilizer can be applied once a month during the growing season.

Q: What should I do if my Hymenophyllum Tunbrigense is infested with spider mites?

A: Spider mites can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. It is important to treat the plant as soon as possible to prevent the infestation from spreading.

Related Plants

• Hymenophyllum dilatatum
• Hymenophyllum microcarpum
• Hymenophyllum multifidum
• Hymenophyllum tunbrigense

References

• Flora of North America Editorial Committee, eds. 1993+. Flora of North America North of Mexico. 16+ vols. New York and Oxford.
• Radford, A. E., H. E. Ahles & C. R. Bell. 1968. Manual of the vascular flora of the Carolinas i–lxi, 1–1183. University of North Carolina Press, Chapel Hill.
• Wunderlin, R. P. 1998. Guide to the vascular plants of Florida i–x, 1–806. University Press of Florida, Gainesville.