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Description
Lygodium Microphyllum, commonly known as climbing fern or small-leafed climbing fern, is a species of fern that is native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas. It is a perennial plant that belongs to the family Lygodiaceae. The plant is characterized by its long, slender, and branching fronds that can reach a length of up to 12 feet. The fronds are green and have a delicate, lacy appearance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Schizaeales |
| Family | Lygodiaceae |
| Genus | Lygodium |
Appearance
The Lygodium Microphyllum plant has long, slender, and branching fronds that can reach a length of up to 12 feet. The fronds are green and have a delicate, lacy appearance. The fronds are composed of many small leaflets that are arranged in pairs along the stem. The leaflets are oblong and have a pointed tip. The plant also has small spore-bearing structures called sporangia that are found on the undersides of the fronds.
Care Guide
Lygodium Microphyllum is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips to help you care for your climbing fern:
- Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer).
- Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight as it can scorch the fronds.
- Hardiness Zones: Lygodium Microphyllum is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lygodium Microphyllum is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. These can be controlled by spraying the plant with a solution of water and mild soap. The plant can also develop fungal infections such as leaf spot and root rot. These can be prevented by avoiding overwatering and ensuring good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Lygodium Microphyllum is native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, including the southern United States, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. It typically grows in wet areas such as swamps, bogs, and along rivers and streams.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Lygodium Microphyllum be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Lygodium Microphyllum can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with bright, indirect sunlight and kept in a well-draining soil mix.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Lygodium Microphyllum plant?
A: You should fertilize your plant once a month with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer).
Q: What is the best way to propagate Lygodium Microphyllum?
A: Lygodium Microphyllum can be propagated by spores or by division. To propagate by spores, collect the spores from the underside of mature fronds and sow them in a pot with a well-draining soil mix. To propagate by division, carefully separate the plant into smaller sections and plant them in their own pots.
Q: What is the ideal temperature range for Lygodium Microphyllum?
A: Lygodium Microphyllum prefers temperatures between 60-80°F.
Related Plants
- Lygodium Japonicum
- Lygodium Palmatum
- Lygodium Scandens
References
- “Lygodium Microphyllum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org.
- “Lygodium Microphyllum.” The Plant List. www.theplantlist.org.
- “Climbing Fern.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. edis.ifas.ufl.edu.
