Contents
Description
Asplenium Fontanum, also known as the Narrow-leaved Spleenwort, is a fern species that belongs to the Aspleniaceae family. It is a small plant that typically grows to only 10 to 20 cm in height. The plant has a rhizomatous growth habit, meaning it grows horizontally underground and produces fronds above the ground. The fronds are long and narrow, with a dark green color and a leathery texture.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Aspleniaceae |
| Genus | Asplenium |
Appearance
Asplenium Fontanum is a small fern species with long and narrow fronds. The plant has a rhizomatous growth habit, meaning it grows horizontally underground and produces fronds above the ground. The fronds are typically 10 to 20 cm in length and have a dark green color with a leathery texture. The fronds are pinnate, meaning that they have leaflets arranged on either side of the stem.
Care Guide
Asplenium Fontanum is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this fern species:
Water
Asplenium Fontanum prefers moist soil but does not like to sit in water. Water the plant regularly, but make sure the soil is well-drained.
Fertilization
Asplenium Fontanum does not require frequent fertilization, but you can add a slow-release fertilizer to the soil once a year. Avoid over-fertilizing the plant, as this can lead to burnt fronds.
Soil
Asplenium Fontanum prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil. You can use a mixture of peat moss, perlite, and sand to create the ideal soil mix for this plant.
Sunlight
Asplenium Fontanum prefers partial shade to full shade. Do not expose the plant to direct sunlight, as this can lead to burnt fronds.
Hardiness Zones
Asplenium Fontanum is hardy in USDA zones 6 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Asplenium Fontanum is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, the plant can be susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. To prevent infestations, keep the plant’s environment clean and free from debris. If you notice signs of infestation, treat the plant with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Asplenium Fontanum is native to Europe and Asia. The plant can be found growing in shaded areas such as woodlands, rocky cliffs, and hedgerows.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Asplenium Fontanum?
A: Asplenium Fontanum prefers moist soil but does not like to sit in water. Water the plant regularly, but make sure the soil is well-drained.
Q: What kind of soil does Asplenium Fontanum prefer?
A: Asplenium Fontanum prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil. You can use a mixture of peat moss, perlite, and sand to create the ideal soil mix for this plant.
Q: What is the ideal sunlight exposure for Asplenium Fontanum?
A: Asplenium Fontanum prefers partial shade to full shade. Do not expose the plant to direct sunlight, as this can lead to burnt fronds.
Q: What are the hardiness zones for Asplenium Fontanum?
A: Asplenium Fontanum is hardy in USDA zones 6 to 9.
Related Plants
Here are some other fern species that are related to Asplenium Fontanum:
- Asplenium Trichomanes
- Asplenium Scolopendrium
- Asplenium Adiantum-nigrum
- Asplenium Rutamuraria
References
- Asplenium Fontanum. (n.d.). Retrieved August 23, 2021, from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/64969/asplenium-fontanum/details
- Asplenium Fontanum Narrow-leaved Spleenwort. (n.d.). Retrieved August 23, 2021, from https://www.plant-world-seeds.com/store/view_seed_item/3810
- Asplenium Fontanum. (n.d.). Retrieved August 23, 2021, from https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/narrow-leaved-spleenwort/asplenium-fontanum-care.htm
