Angiopteris

Description

Angiopteris is a genus of ferns that are widely distributed throughout the tropics. It consists of about 30 species of large, terrestrial ferns that can grow up to 6 feet tall. The leaves of Angiopteris are pinnate and can be up to 10 feet long, making them one of the largest ferns in the world.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukaryota
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Pteridophyta
Class	Polypodiopsida
Order	Polypodiales
Family	Marattiaceae
Genus	Angiopteris

Appearance

The leaves of Angiopteris are large, pinnate, and can be up to 10 feet long. The fronds are light green and have a shiny appearance. The leaflets are oblong, with a pointed tip and are arranged in pairs along the central axis of the leaf. The spores are borne on the undersides of the leaflets, in rows along the veins. In some species, the spores are covered by a fleshy, hood-like structure called an indusium.

Care Guide

Water

Angiopteris prefer to be kept evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Water once a week, or as needed to keep the soil consistently moist.

Fertilization

Angiopteris benefits from regular applications of balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Apply a slow-release fertilizer every three months, or use a liquid fertilizer every two weeks.

Soil

Angiopteris prefer a well-draining, slightly acidic soil. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and sand works well.

Sunlight

Angiopteris prefer bright, indirect light. They can tolerate some morning or evening sun, but direct sunlight should be avoided.

Hardiness Zones

Angiopteris is not frost-tolerant and should be grown indoors or in a greenhouse in areas with cold winters.

Common Pests & Diseases

Angiopteris is susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. Regular inspection and treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil can help prevent infestations.

Habitat

Angiopteris is native to tropical regions around the world, including Southeast Asia, Africa, and Central America. It grows in moist, shaded areas, such as rainforests, and can often be found near streams or other sources of water.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Angiopteris be grown outdoors?

A: Angiopteris is not frost-tolerant and should be grown indoors or in a greenhouse in areas with cold winters.

Q: How often should I fertilize my Angiopteris?

A: Angiopteris benefits from regular applications of balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Apply a slow-release fertilizer every three months, or use a liquid fertilizer every two weeks.

Q: What pests and diseases should I watch out for with my Angiopteris?

A: Angiopteris is susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. Regular inspection and treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil can help prevent infestations.

Q: How big can Angiopteris grow?

A: Angiopteris can grow up to 6 feet tall with leaves that can be up to 10 feet long.

Related Plants

• Marattia
• Christensenia
• Danaea

References

• Smith, A. R., Pryer, K. M., Schuettpelz, E., Korall, P., Schneider, H., & Wolf, P. G. (2006). A classification for extant ferns. Taxon, 55(3), 705-731.
• Maarten J. M. Christenhusz, Xian-Chun Zhang, Harald Schneider (2011) A linear sequence of extant families and genera of lycophytes and ferns. Phytotaxa 19: 7-54.
• Wagner Jr, W. H. (1990). Marattiaceae. Flora Neotropica, 50, 1-66.