Contents
Description
Nephrolepis Exaltata Green Lady, commonly known as the Green Lady fern, is a popular indoor plant that belongs to the fern family. This plant is native to tropical regions of America, Africa, and Asia. The Green Lady fern is known for its lush, green foliage and delicate fronds that cascade gracefully over the sides of its pot. It is an evergreen plant that can grow up to 2 feet tall and 3 feet wide.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Nephrolepidaceae |
| Genus | Nephrolepis |
Appearance
The Green Lady fern has long, arching fronds that are made up of tiny leaflets. The leaflets are arranged in a feather-like pattern and are a bright, glossy green color. The fronds can grow up to 3 feet long and have a delicate, lacy appearance. The plant produces spores on the undersides of its leaves, which can be used to propagate new plants.
Care Guide
The Green Lady fern is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for keeping your plant healthy:
- Water: The Green Lady fern likes to be kept moist, but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the Green Lady fern every 2-3 months during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
- Soil: The Green Lady fern prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mix of peat moss and perlite is a good choice.
- Sunlight: The Green Lady fern prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the delicate leaves.
- Hardiness Zones: The Green Lady fern is not frost-tolerant and is best suited for indoor growing or in warm, humid climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Green Lady fern is relatively pest-free, but it can be susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be prone to root rot if it is overwatered, so be sure to let the soil dry out slightly between waterings.
Habitat
The Green Lady fern is native to tropical regions of America, Africa, and Asia. It grows in a variety of habitats, from rainforests to swamps to rocky cliffs. In the wild, the plant is often found growing on tree trunks or in the crevices of rocks. It is a popular houseplant around the world and is often grown in hanging baskets or on plant stands.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Green Lady fern toxic to pets?
A: No, the Green Lady fern is non-toxic to pets.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Green Lady fern?
A: Fertilize the plant every 2-3 months during the growing season.
Q: Can I propagate my Green Lady fern from spores?
A: Yes, the plant produces spores on the undersides of its leaves that can be used to propagate new plants.
Q: How often should I water my Green Lady fern?
A: Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Related Plants
- Nephrolepis cordifolia
- Nephrolepis biserrata
- Nephrolepis exaltata
- Nephrolepis obliterata
References
- “Nephrolepis exaltata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed November 1, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=276052.
- “Nephrolepis exaltata.” Plant Care Today. Accessed November 1, 2021. https://plantcaretoday.com/nephrolepis-exaltata.html.
- “Green Lady Fern Care: How To Grow A Nephrolepis Exaltata Green Lady Fern.” Gardening Know How. Accessed November 1, 2021. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/green-lady-fern/green-lady-fern-care.htm.
