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Description
Acrostichum, commonly known as leather fern, is a type of fern that belongs to the Pteridaceae family. It is native to tropical and subtropical regions and is commonly found in salt marshes and mangroves. This fern is characterized by its thick, leathery fronds that can grow up to 2 meters long.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Pteridopsida |
| Order | Pteridales |
| Family | Pteridaceae |
| Genus | Acrostichum |
Appearance
The leather fern has a distinctive appearance with its thick, leathery fronds that can grow up to 2 meters long. The fronds are dark green and have a glossy sheen to them. The leaves are pinnatifid, meaning they are divided into lobes that are further divided into smaller leaflets. The leaflets are oblong and have a pointed tip. The fronds grow in a clump and can spread up to 2 meters wide.
Care Guide
Acrostichum is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some care tips to keep your leather fern healthy:- Water: Leather ferns prefer moist soil, so water them regularly to keep the soil damp but not waterlogged.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth.- Soil: Leather ferns prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: These ferns prefer partial shade to full shade and can tolerate low light conditions.- Hardiness Zones: Leather ferns are hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Leather ferns are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, they can be susceptible to mealybugs and scale insects. To prevent these pests, regularly inspect your plant and remove any affected leaves. Leaf spot and root rot can also be a problem for leather ferns, so make sure to provide proper drainage and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Acrostichum is native to tropical and subtropical regions and is commonly found in salt marshes and mangroves. It is a halophyte, meaning it can tolerate high levels of salt in the soil. This makes it a great plant for coastal gardens and landscapes.
Question and Answer
Q: Can leather ferns be grown indoors?
A: Yes, leather ferns can be grown indoors as long as they are placed in a location with bright, indirect light.
Q: How often should I water my leather fern?
A: Leather ferns prefer moist soil, so water them regularly to keep the soil damp but not waterlogged.
Q: How do I propagate my leather fern?
A: Leather ferns can be propagated by division. Simply divide the plant at the root ball and plant the new divisions in fresh soil.
Q: What is the ideal temperature range for leather ferns?
A: Leather ferns prefer temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C).
Related Plants
– Adiantum capillus-veneris (Maidenhair fern)- Asplenium nidus (Bird’s nest fern)- Cyathea cooperi (Australian tree fern)- Nephrolepis exaltata (Sword fern)- Polystichum setiferum (Soft shield fern)
References
– “Acrostichum aureum.” Floridata. Accessed May 14, 2021. https://floridata.com/Plants/Pteridaceae/Acrostichum+aureum/61.- “Acrostichum.” Plantz Africa. Accessed May 14, 2021. https://www.plantzafrica.com/plantab/acrostichumaureum.htm.- “Leather Fern.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. Accessed May 14, 2021. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp645.
