Contents
Description
Aglaomorpha Rigidula, commonly known as the leather fern, is a species of fern that belongs to the family Polypodiaceae. Native to Southeast Asia, this plant is a popular houseplant due to its attractive foliage and ease of care.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Polypodiaceae |
| Genus | Aglaomorpha |
Appearance
The Aglaomorpha Rigidula plant has dark green, glossy, and leathery fronds that can grow up to 60cm in length. The leaves are elongated, lance-shaped, and have a pointed tip, with a slightly serrated margin. The plant has a rhizomatous growth habit, and the fronds grow from a central base. It is a slow-growing plant, and the fronds emerge from the base in a rosette-like pattern.
Care Guide
The Aglaomorpha Rigidula plant is easy to care for and is suitable for beginners. Here are some tips on how to take care of this plant:
Water
The leather fern prefers moist soil, so it is essential to keep the soil evenly moist. Water the plant once a week, but ensure that the soil is not waterlogged, which can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer) every two weeks. Use a half-strength solution to avoid burning the roots.
Soil
The leather fern prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite creates a suitable soil mix for this plant.
Sunlight
The Aglaomorpha Rigidula plant prefers bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while low light can cause stunted growth.
Hardiness Zones
This plant is not frost-tolerant and is suitable for growing in USDA hardiness zones 9-11. It can also be grown indoors in other areas.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Aglaomorpha Rigidula plant is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, if the plant is overwatered or exposed to low light, it can attract pests such as spider mites and mealybugs. These pests can be controlled by wiping the leaves with a damp cloth or spraying the plant with a neem oil solution.
Habitat
The leather fern is native to Southeast Asia and can be found in tropical forests. It grows as an epiphyte on trees or rocks, and its rhizomatous growth habit allows it to spread quickly in its natural habitat.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water the Aglaomorpha Rigidula plant?
A: Water the plant once a week, but ensure that the soil is not waterlogged, which can lead to root rot.
Q: Can I grow the leather fern outdoors?
A: This plant is not frost-tolerant and is suitable for growing in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Q: What should I do if my Aglaomorpha Rigidula plant attracts pests?
A: If the plant is overwatered or exposed to low light, it can attract pests such as spider mites and mealybugs. These pests can be controlled by wiping the leaves with a damp cloth or spraying the plant with a neem oil solution.
Q: How often should I fertilize the leather fern?
A: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer) every two weeks.
Related Plants
- Aglaomorpha Coronans
- Aglaomorpha Meifolia
- Aglaomorpha Pusilla
- Aglaomorpha Schizophylla
References
- “Aglaomorpha Rigidula.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 26, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280717&isprofile=0&pt=1.
- “Aglaomorpha Rigidula.” Plant Care Today. Accessed August 26, 2021. https://plantcaretoday.com/aglaomorpha-rigidula.html.
- “Aglaomorpha Rigidula – Leather Fern Care Guide.” Houseplant Central. Accessed August 26, 2021. https://houseplantcentral.com/aglaomorpha-rigidula-leather-fern/.
