Contents
Description
Anogramma Leptophylla, commonly known as the fragile fern, is a deciduous fern species that belongs to the Pteridaceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in moist woodlands, swamps, and along streams. This fern is a popular choice for gardens and landscaping due to its delicate appearance and ease of care.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Pteridophyta |
| Class: | Pteridopsida |
| Order: | Pteridales |
| Family: | Pteridaceae |
| Genus: | Anogramma |
Appearance
The fragile fern has delicate fronds that grow up to 30 cm in length and 5 cm in width. Its fronds are bipinnate, meaning they have twice-pinnate leaflets. The leaflets are oblong and lance-shaped with a glossy green color. The fern produces spores on the undersides of its fronds, which appear as brown dots.
Care Guide
Water: The fragile fern prefers moist soil, so it is important to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water the fern once a week or when the soil feels dry to the touch.
Fertilization: Fertilize the fern in the spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Do not fertilize during the winter months.
Soil: The fragile fern prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil mix of peat moss, perlite, and sand is ideal.
Sunlight: The fragile fern prefers partial shade to full shade. Direct sunlight can scorch its delicate fronds.
Hardiness Zones: The fragile fern is hardy in USDA zones 4a to 8b.
Common Pests & Diseases
The fragile fern is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be prone to spider mites and scale insects. To prevent these pests, keep the fern’s environment clean and well-ventilated. If an infestation occurs, treat it with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The fragile fern is native to North America and can be found in moist woodlands, swamps, and along streams. It prefers growing in shaded areas with moist soil.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my fragile fern?
A: Water the fern once a week or when the soil feels dry to the touch.
Q: What is the ideal soil mix for the fragile fern?
A: A soil mix of peat moss, perlite, and sand is ideal.
Q: What are the hardiness zones for the fragile fern?
A: The fragile fern is hardy in USDA zones 4a to 8b.
Q: How do I prevent spider mites and scale insects on my fragile fern?
A: Keep the fern’s environment clean and well-ventilated. If an infestation occurs, treat it with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Related Plants
- Anogramma Chaerophylla
- Anogramma Japonica
- Anogramma Leyboldii
- Anogramma Lucidum
References
- “Anogramma leptophylla.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 20 August 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a244>.
- “Anogramma leptophylla.” Plant Database. Accessed 20 August 2021. <https://gobotany.nativeplanttrust.org/species/anogramma/leptophylla/>.
- “Fragile Fern (Anogramma leptophylla).” Illinois Wildflowers. Accessed 20 August 2021. <https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/grasses/plants/frg_fern.html>.
