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Description
Asplenium Tenerum, commonly known as the tender bird’s-nest fern, is a species of fern that belongs to the family Aspleniaceae. It is native to the tropics, including areas in Asia, Africa, and the Pacific. The plant is epiphytic, which means it grows on other plants, and can also be found growing on rocks or in soil. Asplenium Tenerum is a popular plant for indoor gardening due to its attractive appearance and ease of care.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Aspleniaceae |
| Genus | Asplenium |
Appearance
Asplenium Tenerum has long, arching fronds that can grow up to 1 meter in length. The fronds are pinnate, which means they have a central stem with small leaflets branching off on either side. The leaflets are oblong in shape and have a glossy, dark green color. The plant has a rosette-like growth habit and its fronds grow in a circular pattern, resembling a bird’s nest. Asplenium Tenerum produces spores on the underside of its fronds, which can be seen as small brown dots.
Care Guide
Water: Asplenium Tenerum prefers to be kept moist, but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Use room temperature water and avoid getting water on the fronds, as this can cause spotting.Fertilization: Feed Asplenium Tenerum with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Do not fertilize during the winter months.Soil: Asplenium Tenerum prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and sand is ideal.Sunlight: Asplenium Tenerum prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid placing the plant in direct sunlight, as this can scorch its fronds.Hardiness Zones: Asplenium Tenerum is not frost-tolerant and is best suited for growing indoors or in tropical climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
Asplenium Tenerum is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can be affected by mealybugs and spider mites. To prevent these pests, keep the plant clean and avoid overwatering. If infested, treat with a mild soap solution or insecticidal spray.
Habitat
Asplenium Tenerum is native to tropical areas, including parts of Asia, Africa, and the Pacific. The plant grows epiphytically on other plants, such as trees or shrubs, as well as on rocks or in soil. It prefers humid environments with bright, indirect light.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Asplenium Tenerum be grown outdoors?A: Asplenium Tenerum is not frost-tolerant and is best suited for growing indoors or in tropical climates.Q: How often should I water Asplenium Tenerum?A: Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Asplenium Tenerum prefers to be kept moist, but not waterlogged.Q: What kind of soil does Asplenium Tenerum prefer?A: Asplenium Tenerum prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and sand is ideal.Q: How can I prevent pests on my Asplenium Tenerum?A: Keep the plant clean and avoid overwatering. If infested, treat with a mild soap solution or insecticidal spray.
Related Plants
- Asplenium Nidus (Bird’s Nest Fern)
- Asplenium Bulbiferum (Hen and Chicken Fern)
- Asplenium Crispy Wave (Crispy Wave Fern)
References
- “Asplenium Tenerum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287563.
- “Asplenium Tenerum.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/236380/Asplenium-tenerum/Details.
- “Tender Bird’s Nest Fern (Asplenium Tenerum).” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/tender-birds-nest-fern-plant-profile-5077974.
