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Description
Ophioglossum Engelmannii, commonly known as Engelmann’s adder’s-tongue, is a fern endemic to North America. It belongs to the Ophioglossaceae family and is a rare species that grows in moist meadows, bogs, and fens. This fern has a unique appearance with its narrow, linear fronds that are much longer than wide.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Ophioglossopsida |
| Order | Ophioglossales |
| Family | Ophioglossaceae |
| Genus | Ophioglossum |
Appearance
Engelmann’s adder’s-tongue is a small fern that grows up to 30 centimeters tall. It has a single, erect, and unbranched frond that arises from a subterranean rhizome. The frond is narrow, linear, and much longer than wide with a length of 5-20 centimeters and a width of 2-5 millimeters. It has a single fertile spike that is 2-10 centimeters long and is covered with sporangia. The sterile portion of the frond is green while the fertile portion is brownish.
Care Guide
To grow Ophioglossum Engelmannii, it is essential to provide the right growing conditions. Here is a care guide to help you:
Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged by watering it regularly. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: This fern does not require frequent fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
Soil: The ideal soil for Ophioglossum Engelmannii is a well-draining and organic-rich soil that is slightly acidic. It prefers a soil pH of 5.5 to 6.5.
Sunlight: This fern prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the fronds.
Hardiness Zones: Ophioglossum Engelmannii is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Engelmann’s adder’s-tongue is generally free from pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by fungal diseases such as rust and leaf spot. The best way to avoid these diseases is to keep the plant clean and dry. Overwatering can also lead to fungal problems. In terms of pests, this fern may attract slugs and snails, which can be controlled by physical removal or using organic slug baits.
Habitat
Ophioglossum Engelmannii is native to North America and is found in moist meadows, bogs, and fens. It prefers wet soils with a high organic content and a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. This fern grows in areas with a moderate climate and is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Ophioglossum Engelmannii easy to grow?
A: Ophioglossum Engelmannii is not difficult to grow if you provide the right growing conditions. It prefers moist, well-draining soil, partial shade, and regular watering.
Q: Can I grow Ophioglossum Engelmannii indoors?
A: It is possible to grow Ophioglossum Engelmannii indoors if you provide the right growing conditions, such as bright, indirect light and high humidity.
Q: When does Ophioglossum Engelmannii produce spores?
A: Ophioglossum Engelmannii produces spores in late spring or early summer. The fertile spike turns brown as the sporangia mature and release spores.
Q: Is Ophioglossum Engelmannii a threatened species?
A: Yes, Ophioglossum Engelmannii is a rare species and is listed as threatened in some states.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Ophioglossum Engelmannii:
- Ophioglossum crotalophoroides
- Ophioglossum petiolatum
- Ophioglossum vulgatum
- Ophioglossum reticulatum
References
- USDA Plants Database: https://plants.usda.gov/home
- Missouri Botanical Garden: http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/
- Encyclopedia of Life: https://eol.org/
- Flora of North America: http://www.efloras.org/
