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Description
Alsophila Kermadecensis, commonly known as the Kermadec tree fern, is a species of fern that belongs to the family Cyatheaceae. It is native to the Kermadec Islands, which are located northeast of New Zealand. This fern can grow up to 10 meters tall and has a trunk that is covered in brown scales.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Cyatheales |
| Family | Cyatheaceae |
| Genus | Alsophila |
Appearance
The Kermadec tree fern has a large, green frond that can grow up to 4 meters long. The frond is divided into numerous leaflets that are up to 20 centimeters long. The trunk of the fern is slender and can grow up to 25 centimeters in diameter. It is covered in brown scales that are up to 2 centimeters long. The scales give the trunk a rough texture.
Care Guide
Water: The Kermadec tree fern requires regular watering to keep the soil moist. It is important not to let the soil dry out completely.Fertilization: This fern benefits from regular fertilization, especially during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer that is high in nitrogen.Soil: The Kermadec tree fern prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: This fern prefers partial shade to full shade. It does not tolerate direct sunlight well.Hardiness Zones: The Kermadec tree fern is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Kermadec tree fern is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including:Pests: Scale insects, mealybugs, and spider mites can infest the fronds of the fern.Diseases: Root rot and leaf spot can occur if the fern is overwatered or if the soil does not drain well.
Habitat
The Kermadec tree fern is native to the Kermadec Islands, which are located northeast of New Zealand. It grows in moist, shady areas, such as the understory of forests.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Kermadec tree fern be grown indoors?
A: Yes, this fern can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with the right conditions, such as adequate moisture and indirect sunlight.Q: Is the Kermadec tree fern endangered?
A: No, this fern is not currently listed as an endangered species.Q: How often should I fertilize my Kermadec tree fern?
A: It is recommended to fertilize this fern every 2-3 months during the growing season.Q: Can the Kermadec tree fern be propagated?
A: Yes, this fern can be propagated by spores or by dividing the clumps.
Related Plants
Other ferns that are related to the Kermadec tree fern include:
- Cyatheales
- Dicksonia antarctica
- Cibotium barometz
- Cyathea cooperi
References
- Department of Conservation. (n.d.). Kermadec islands. Retrieved from https://www.doc.govt.nz/kermadecislands
- Rodriguez, R. (2018). Cyatheaceae. In Flora of North America Editorial Committee (Eds.), Flora of North America North of Mexico. New York and Oxford. Retrieved from http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=1&taxon_id=10151
- Tree Ferns. (n.d.). Alsophila Kermadecensis. Retrieved from https://www.treeferns.com/alsophila-kermadecensis
