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Description
Sceptridium Biternatum, commonly known as the Beaded Fern, is a unique fern species that belongs to the Ophioglossaceae family. It is a small-sized fern that grows up to 12 inches in height and 6 inches in width. The fern’s fronds are divided into three parts: a sterile frond, a fertile frond, and a stalk in between them. The sterile frond is green, and the fertile frond is brown. The stalk is light brown and covered with beads that give the fern its name.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Ophioglossopsida |
| Order | Ophioglossales |
| Family | Ophioglossaceae |
| Genus | Sceptridium |
Appearance
The Beaded Fern has a unique appearance due to its stalk covered with beads. The sterile frond is green, and the fertile frond is brown. The fertile frond is narrower than the sterile frond and has a spore-bearing structure on its underside. The fronds are arranged in a rosette pattern around the base of the plant. The Beaded Fern is a deciduous fern that dies back in the winter and re-emerges in the spring.
Care Guide
To care for the Beaded Fern, you need to provide it with the right growing conditions. Here are the care requirements for this fern:
Water: The Beaded Fern needs regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top 1 inch of soil feels dry.
Fertilization: You can fertilize the Beaded Fern with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Use a water-soluble fertilizer and follow the instructions on the label.
Soil: The Beaded Fern prefers a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. You can use a peat-based potting mix or add compost to the soil to improve its fertility.
Sunlight: The Beaded Fern prefers partial shade to full shade. It can tolerate some morning sun, but it should be protected from hot afternoon sun.
Hardiness Zones: The Beaded Fern is hardy in USDA zones 3-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Beaded Fern is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and do not overwater the plant. The fern can also be attacked by scale insects or mealybugs. Use a neem oil solution to control these pests.
Habitat
The Beaded Fern is native to North America and can be found in moist woodlands, swamps, and bogs. It prefers acidic soils and can grow in areas with high humidity.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Beaded Fern a good indoor plant?
A: Yes, the Beaded Fern can be grown indoors in a bright, humid location. It prefers a cool room temperature and moist soil.
Q: How often should I water my Beaded Fern?
A: Water your Beaded Fern when the top 1 inch of soil feels dry. Do not let the soil dry out completely, but avoid overwatering the plant.
Q: Can I propagate my Beaded Fern?
A: Yes, you can propagate the Beaded Fern by dividing the plant. Wait until the plant has several fronds and gently remove it from the soil. Separate the fronds and replant them in new pots.
Q: How tall does the Beaded Fern grow?
A: The Beaded Fern grows up to 12 inches in height and 6 inches in width.
Related Plants
Here are some other fern species that are related to the Beaded Fern:
- Sceptridium Depauperatum
- Sceptridium Multifidum
- Sceptridium Oneidense
References
- “Sceptridium Biternatum (Beed Fern).” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c100.
- “Sceptridium Biternatum.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, University of Texas at Austin, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=SCBI.
- “Sceptridium Biternatum.” USDA Plants Database, plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=SCBI.
