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Description
Rhytidiopsis Robusta, also known as Humpbacked Fern, is a species of fern that belongs to the family of Lomariopsidaceae. It is a native plant of China, Japan, and Taiwan, and can be found growing in damp and shady areas such as forests, riverbanks, and wetlands. This fern has a unique appearance with its elongated fronds and hump-like bumps on the underside of the leaves.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Lomariopsidaceae |
| Genus | Rhytidiopsis |
| Species | Robusta |
Appearance
Rhytidiopsis Robusta has elongated fronds that can grow up to 2 feet in length. The fronds are light green in color and have a leathery texture. The underside of the leaves has hump-like bumps, which is where the plant gets its common name, Humpbacked Fern. The bumps contain clusters of spores, which are used for reproduction.
Care Guide
Water: Rhytidiopsis Robusta prefers moist soil, so it is important to keep the soil consistently damp but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season using a balanced fertilizer.
Soil: This fern grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: Rhytidiopsis Robusta prefers partial to full shade and can be damaged by direct sunlight.
Hardiness Zones: This fern is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Rhytidiopsis Robusta is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is not well-draining. Overwatering can also lead to fungal infections.
Habitat
Rhytidiopsis Robusta is native to China, Japan, and Taiwan and can be found growing in damp and shady areas such as forests, riverbanks, and wetlands. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Rhytidiopsis Robusta be grown indoors?
A: Yes, this fern can be grown indoors as long as it is placed in a bright, indirect light and in well-draining soil.
Q: How often should I fertilize Rhytidiopsis Robusta?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season using a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the ideal temperature range for Rhytidiopsis Robusta?
A: This fern can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but prefers temperatures between 60-75°F.
Q: How often should I water Rhytidiopsis Robusta?
A: Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.
Related Plants
- Rhytidiadelphus triquetrus
- Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus
- Rhytidiadelphus loreus
- Rhytidiadelphus subpinnatus
References
- “Rhytidiopsis Robusta.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 19 Feb. 2021.
- “Rhytidiopsis Robusta.” Plant Lust. Plant Lust, n.d. Web. 19 Feb. 2021.
- “Rhytidiopsis Robusta.” World Ferns. World Ferns, n.d. Web. 19 Feb. 2021.
