Contents
Description
Psilotum Complanatum, commonly known as the “whisk fern,” is a unique plant species that lacks both leaves and a root system. Instead, it has small scales that serve as its leaves and absorbs nutrients through its stems. This ancient plant species has been present since the Devonian period and can be found in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Psilophyta |
| Class | Psilopsida |
| Order | Psilophytales |
| Family | Psilotaceae |
| Genus | Psilotum |
Appearance
Psilotum Complanatum has a unique appearance due to its lack of leaves and root system. It has a thin, green stem that can grow up to 60cm tall with small scales that serve as its leaves. The plant also has a spore-bearing structure called a sporangium, which is located at the end of its branches. The sporangium is a small, yellowish-brown ball that contains spores for reproduction.
Care Guide
Psilotum Complanatum is a low maintenance plant that requires minimal care. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial shade to full shade. Here are some care tips to keep your whisk fern healthy and thriving:- Water: Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.- Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization, but you can use a balanced liquid fertilizer once a month during the growing season.- Soil: Use well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: Psilotum Complanatum prefers partial to full shade and can be grown indoors or outdoors.- Hardiness Zones: The plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Psilotum Complanatum is not prone to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or grown in poorly draining soil. To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged, and the plant is grown in well-draining soil.
Habitat
Psilotum Complanatum can be found in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, including Africa, Asia, Australia, and the Americas. It grows in moist, shaded areas such as rainforests, swamps, and wetlands.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Psilotum Complanatum be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Psilotum Complanatum can be grown indoors in partial to full shade.
Q: Is Psilotum Complanatum a flowering plant?
A: No, Psilotum Complanatum does not produce flowers. Instead, it reproduces through spores.
Q: Can Psilotum Complanatum survive in dry conditions?
A: No, Psilotum Complanatum prefers moist conditions and may not survive in dry environments.
Q: How often should I water Psilotum Complanatum?
A: Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, as it may lead to root rot.
Related Plants
– Psilotum nudum (naked stem fern)- Tmesipteris (fork ferns)- Equisetum (horsetails)- Lycopodium (clubmosses)
References
– “Psilotum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 19 August 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=j490– “Psilotum Complanatum.” Garden.org. Accessed 19 August 2021. https://garden.org/plants/view/78763/Whisk-Fern-Psilotum-complanatum/– “Psilophyta.” Encyclopædia Britannica. Accessed 19 August 2021. https://www.britannica.com/plant/Psilophyta
