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Description
Asplenium Aethiopicum, also known as the common spleenwort, is a fern species native to Africa and Madagascar. It belongs to the family Aspleniaceae and is a popular choice for indoor gardening due to its hardiness and attractive foliage. The plant typically grows up to 30 cm in height and 60 cm in width. It is a slow-growing fern that produces fronds in a rosette form.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Kingdom | Phylum | Class | Order | Family | Genus || — | — | — | — | — | — | — || Eukaryota | Plantae | Tracheophyta | Polypodiopsida | Polypodiales | Aspleniaceae | Asplenium |
Appearance
Asplenium Aethiopicum has a unique and attractive appearance. The plant has long, narrow fronds with a glossy, dark green color. The fronds grow in a rosette form and can reach up to 30 cm in length. Asplenium Aethiopicum produces spores on the underside of the fronds. The plant’s spores are yellow-brown in color and are arranged in a linear pattern.
Care Guide
Asplenium Aethiopicum is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:Water: Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry.Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.Soil: Use well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: Asplenium Aethiopicum prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid placing the plant in direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves.Hardiness Zones: Asplenium Aethiopicum is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Asplenium Aethiopicum is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, the plant can be affected by mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by root rot if overwatered. To prevent root rot, make sure the plant is not sitting in water and the soil is well-draining.
Habitat
Asplenium Aethiopicum is native to Africa and Madagascar. The plant can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including forests, rocky slopes, and mountain cliffs. Asplenium Aethiopicum is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Asplenium Aethiopicum a good indoor plant?
A: Yes, Asplenium Aethiopicum is a good indoor plant as it is hardy and easy to care for.Q: How often should I water my Asplenium Aethiopicum?
A: Water your Asplenium Aethiopicum when the top inch of soil is dry.Q: Can Asplenium Aethiopicum be grown outdoors?
A: Yes, Asplenium Aethiopicum can be grown outdoors in USDA zones 9-11.Q: What is the optimal temperature range for Asplenium Aethiopicum?
A: Asplenium Aethiopicum prefers temperatures between 60-75°F.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Asplenium Aethiopicum:- Asplenium bulbiferum- Asplenium nidus- Asplenium scolopendrium- Asplenium trichomanes
References
– Flora of Zimbabwe. (n.d.). Asplenium Aethiopicum. Retrieved from http://www.zimbabweflora.co.zw/speciesdata/species.php?species_id=152880- Gardening Know How. (2021). Common Spleenwort Care: Learn About Growing Asplenium Aethiopicum. Retrieved from https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/foliage/common-spleenwort/growing-common-spleenwort.htm- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Asplenium Aethiopicum. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=l190
