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Description
Woodsia Alpina, also known as Alpine Woodsia, is a small, clumping fern that belongs to the Woodsia genus. It is native to the Northern Hemisphere and can be found in rocky, alpine environments. This fern has a short, creeping rhizome and fronds that grow up to 15 cm long. Its leaves are long and narrow with a lanceolate shape, and they have a dark green color.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Woodsiaceae |
| Genus | Woodsia |
Appearance
Woodsia Alpina has a distinctive appearance that makes it stand out from other ferns. Its fronds are narrow and have a lanceolate shape, with a dark green color that gives them a glossy appearance. The fronds grow in a clumping habit, forming a dense mound that can reach up to 15 cm in height. This fern also has a short, creeping rhizome that helps it to spread and establish itself in rocky, alpine environments.
Care Guide
Woodsia Alpina is a relatively easy plant to care for, as long as you provide it with the right growing conditions. Here are some tips for caring for this fern:
- Water: Woodsia Alpina prefers to grow in moist, well-drained soil. Water it regularly, but make sure not to overwater it, as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: This fern does not require much fertilization. You can feed it with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: Woodsia Alpina prefers to grow in well-drained, acidic soil. You can add peat moss or compost to the soil to improve its drainage and acidity.
- Sunlight: This fern prefers to grow in partial shade or full shade. Direct sunlight can scorch its leaves and cause them to turn yellow or brown.
- Hardiness Zones: Woodsia Alpina is hardy in zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Woodsia Alpina is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to fungal infections if it is grown in damp conditions. Here are some of the most common pests and diseases that can affect this fern:
- Botrytis Blight: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on the fronds and can eventually kill the plant.
- Scale Insects: These insects can suck the sap from the fronds, causing them to turn yellow and fall off.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can spin webs on the fronds and cause them to become discolored and distorted.
Habitat
Woodsia Alpina is native to the Northern Hemisphere and can be found in rocky, alpine environments. It prefers to grow in moist, well-drained soil and partial shade or full shade. This fern is often found growing on rocky outcrops, cliffs, and ledges, and it can also be grown in a rock garden or container.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Woodsia Alpina a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, Woodsia Alpina is a relatively easy plant to care for and is a good choice for beginners.
Q: Can Woodsia Alpina be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Woodsia Alpina can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with bright, indirect light and high humidity.
Q: How often should I water Woodsia Alpina?
A: Water Woodsia Alpina regularly, but make sure not to overwater it, as this can lead to root rot. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Q: Is Woodsia Alpina a good plant for a rock garden?
A: Yes, Woodsia Alpina is an excellent choice for a rock garden, as it prefers to grow in rocky, well-drained soil.
Related Plants
- Woodsia Ilvensis
- Woodsia Oregana
- Woodsia Scopulina
References
- Flora of North America: Woodsia Alpina
- RHS Plant Finder: Woodsia Alpina
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Woodsia Alpina
