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Description
Athyrium Asplenioides, commonly known as the Southern Lady Fern, is a perennial fern native to eastern North America. It is a member of the Athyriaceae family and has a rhizomatous growth habit. This fern is known for its delicate fronds that can grow up to 2 feet in length and 6 inches in width. The fronds are bipinnate and have a light green color. The plant is sterile, meaning it does not produce spores.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Athyriaceae |
| Genus | Athyrium |
Appearance
Athyrium Asplenioides has delicate fronds that are light green in color. The fronds are bipinnate and can grow up to 2 feet in length and 6 inches in width. The plant has a rhizomatous growth habit and does not produce spores. The fronds emerge in the spring and remain green throughout the growing season. In the fall, the fronds turn yellow and then brown, eventually dying back to the ground.
Care Guide
Athyrium Asplenioides prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial to full shade. It is tolerant of a range of soil types, but prefers soils that are rich in organic matter. The plant should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Fertilizer can be applied in the spring to promote growth.This fern is hardy in USDA zones 5-8 and can be grown in containers or in the ground. It is relatively low maintenance and does not require pruning or deadheading.
Common Pests & Diseases
Athyrium Asplenioides is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to aphids, scale insects, and spider mites. These can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant may also be susceptible to fungal diseases such as rust or leaf spot. These can be treated with a fungicide.
Habitat
Athyrium Asplenioides is native to eastern North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodland edges, meadows, and wetlands. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial to full shade. The plant is often used in shade gardens or as a groundcover in woodland areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Athyrium Asplenioides deer resistant?
A: Yes, this fern is typically deer resistant.
Q: Can Athyrium Asplenioides be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this fern can be grown in containers as long as the soil is kept moist and the plant is not exposed to direct sunlight.
Q: How often should Athyrium Asplenioides be fertilized?
A: Fertilizer can be applied in the spring to promote growth. It is recommended to follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging for application rates.
Q: How can I propagate Athyrium Asplenioides?
A: This fern can be propagated by dividing the rhizomes in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
- Athyrium filix-femina (Lady Fern)
- Athyrium niponicum (Japanese Painted Fern)
- Athyrium otophorum (Eared Lady Fern)
- Athyrium pycnocarpon (Southern Prickly Fern)
References
- “Athyrium asplenioides (Southern Lady Fern).” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=e304.
- “Athyrium Asplenioides.” North Carolina State University Extension, content.ces.ncsu.edu/athyrium-asplenioides.
- “Athyrium Asplenioides.” The Morton Arboretum, www.mortonarb.org/trees-plants/tree-plant-descriptions/southern-lady-fern.
