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Description
Ampelopteris Prolifera, commonly known as the Climbing fern or Creeping vine fern, is a species of fern belonging to the family Polypodiaceae. It is native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, including the Caribbean, Central America, and South America.This fern is known for its creeping habit, with stems that can grow up to 10 feet long. The fronds of Ampelopteris Prolifera are pinnately compound, with alternate pinnae that are oblong-lanceolate in shape. The fronds can grow up to 3 feet long and are a bright green color.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Polypodiaceae |
| Genus | Ampelopteris |
| Species | Prolifera |
Appearance
Ampelopteris Prolifera is a creeping fern with stems that can grow up to 10 feet long. The fronds are pinnately compound, with alternate pinnae that are oblong-lanceolate in shape. The fronds can grow up to 3 feet long and are a bright green color. The spores are produced in sori that are located on the underside of the fronds.
Care Guide
Ampelopteris Prolifera is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for keeping your Climbing fern healthy:- Water: This fern prefers moist soil, so be sure to water it regularly. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely.- Fertilization: You can fertilize your Ampelopteris Prolifera once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: This fern prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: Ampelopteris Prolifera prefers partial shade to full shade.- Hardiness Zones: This fern is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ampelopteris Prolifera is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can still be susceptible to a few common problems. Here are some issues to watch out for:- Spider mites: These pests can cause yellowing and leaf drop. Use a miticide to control them.- Scale insects: These pests can cause yellowing and stunted growth. Use an insecticidal soap to control them.- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on the fronds. Remove infected fronds and treat with a fungicide to prevent it from spreading.
Habitat
Ampelopteris Prolifera is native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, including the Caribbean, Central America, and South America. It can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including forests, swamps, and along riverbanks.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Ampelopteris Prolifera be grown indoors?
A: Yes, this fern can be grown indoors as long as it is given adequate moisture and light.
Q: Does Ampelopteris Prolifera need to be pruned?
A: No, this fern does not require pruning. However, you can remove any dead or damaged fronds to keep it looking neat.
Q: How often should I fertilize Ampelopteris Prolifera?
A: You can fertilize this fern once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can I grow Ampelopteris Prolifera in a hanging basket?
A: Yes, this fern can be grown in a hanging basket as long as it is given enough space to grow and adequate moisture.
Related Plants
Here are some other ferns that are related to Ampelopteris Prolifera:- Polypodium scouleri- Platycerium bifurcatum- Nephrolepis exaltata- Adiantum capillus-veneris
References
– Flora of North America. (n.d.). Ampelopteris. http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=1&taxon_id=10050- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Ampelopteris Prolifera. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=242216&isprofile=0&- University of Florida IFAS Extension. (n.d.). Ampelopteris Prolifera. https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/ornamentals/ampelopteris-prolifera.html
