Contents
Description
The Asplenium Ceterach, commonly known as the Rustyback Fern, is a small fern that grows up to 20 centimeters in height. It has a short, creeping rhizome and narrow, lance-shaped fronds that are divided into small, pointed segments. The fronds have a distinctive rusty-brown color on the undersides, which gives the fern its common name.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Aspleniaceae |
| Genus | Asplenium |
Appearance
The Asplenium Ceterach has narrow, lance-shaped fronds that are divided into small, pointed segments. The fronds have a distinctive rusty-brown color on the undersides, which gives the fern its common name. The fronds are arranged in a rosette pattern and grow up to 20 centimeters in height. The fern has a short, creeping rhizome that produces new fronds as it grows.
Care Guide
The Asplenium Ceterach prefers a well-draining soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. It prefers partial shade to full shade and is hardy in zones 6-9. Fertilize the fern with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing as this can damage the fern. The fern is relatively pest and disease-free but can be affected by mealybugs and spider mites. Treat any infestations with a mild soap solution or neem oil.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Asplenium Ceterach is relatively pest and disease-free but can be affected by mealybugs and spider mites. Mealybugs are small, white insects that suck the sap from the fern, causing yellowing and wilting. Spider mites are tiny, spider-like insects that also suck the sap from the fern, causing yellowing and browning of the fronds. Treat any infestations with a mild soap solution or neem oil.
Habitat
The Asplenium Ceterach is native to Europe and North Africa and grows in rocky habitats, such as limestone cliffs and walls. It prefers partial shade to full shade and can tolerate dry conditions once established. The fern is hardy in zones 6-9 and can be grown as a houseplant in colder climates.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Asplenium Ceterach be grown as a houseplant?
A: Yes, the fern can be grown as a houseplant in colder climates.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Asplenium Ceterach?
A: The fern is hardy in zones 6-9.
Q: Does the Asplenium Ceterach require full sun?
A: No, the fern prefers partial shade to full shade.
Q: What pests and diseases affect the Asplenium Ceterach?
A: Mealybugs and spider mites can affect the fern. Treat any infestations with a mild soap solution or neem oil.
Related Plants
- Asplenium scolopendrium
- Asplenium nidus
- Asplenium trichomanes
- Asplenium bulbiferum
References
- BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine. (2021). How to grow Asplenium ceterach. Retrieved October 6, 2021, from https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/how-to-grow-asplenium-ceterach/
- RHS. (n.d.). Asplenium ceterach. Retrieved October 6, 2021, from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/1022/Asplenium-ceterach/Details
- Wikipedia. (2021). Asplenium ceterach. Retrieved October 6, 2021, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asplenium_ceterach
