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Description
Arachniodes Aristata Variegata, also known as variegated Japanese holly fern, is a fern species that belongs to the Dryopteridaceae family. It is native to Japan, China, and Korea and is widely cultivated for ornamental purposes. This fern species is evergreen and can grow up to 2 feet tall and 3 feet wide. It has variegated leaves that are glossy and leathery, with a dark green center and creamy white margins.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Dryopteridaceae |
| Genus | Arachniodes |
Appearance
Arachniodes Aristata Variegata has variegated leaves that are glossy and leathery, with a dark green center and creamy white margins. The leaves are bipinnate and can grow up to 12 inches long and 6 inches wide. The leaflets are oblong and have serrated edges. This fern species can grow up to 2 feet tall and 3 feet wide. It produces spores on the undersides of its fronds.
Care Guide
Arachniodes Aristata Variegata requires moderate care and attention to thrive. Here are some tips on how to care for this fern species:
Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the fern once a week, or more frequently during hot and dry weather.
Fertilization: Feed the fern with a balanced liquid fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).
Soil: Plant the fern in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil pH (6.0-7.0).
Sunlight: Arachniodes Aristata Variegata prefers partial to full shade. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.
Hardiness Zones: This fern species is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Arachniodes Aristata Variegata is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to the following:
Slugs and snails: These pests can damage the leaves, especially in wet weather. Use slug and snail bait or traps to control them.
Spider mites: These pests can cause yellowing and browning of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
Black spot: This fungal disease can cause black spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and treat the fern with a fungicide.
Habitat
Arachniodes Aristata Variegata is native to Japan, China, and Korea, where it grows in moist, shaded areas such as forests, stream banks, and rocky slopes. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can also grow in containers and is a popular houseplant.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Arachniodes Aristata Variegata toxic to pets?
A: No, this fern species is non-toxic to pets and humans.
Q: Can Arachniodes Aristata Variegata grow in full sun?
A: No, this fern species prefers partial to full shade and can be damaged by direct sunlight.
Q: How often should I fertilize Arachniodes Aristata Variegata?
A: Feed the fern with a balanced liquid fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).
Q: Can Arachniodes Aristata Variegata tolerate drought?
A: No, this fern species prefers moist soil and can wilt and die if it is not watered regularly.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Arachniodes Aristata Variegata:
- Arachniodes standishii
- Asplenium nidus
- Dryopteris erythrosora
- Polystichum setiferum
References
- “Arachniodes aristata variegata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=f318.
- “Arachniodes aristata variegata.” Plant Care Today, 15 Mar. 2021, plantcaretoday.com/arachniodes-aristata-variegata.
- “Variegated Japanese Holly Fern.” The Spruce, 31 Jan. 2021, www.thespruce.com/variegated-japanese-holly-fern-4692686.
