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Description
Asplenium Pinnatifidum, commonly known as the holly fern, is a fern species in the Aspleniaceae family. It is native to New Zealand and can also be found in southeastern Australia, where it grows on rocks, cliffs, and in moist forests. The plant can grow up to 60 cm tall and has dark green, glossy, and leathery fronds that are pinnatifid and serrated. The holly fern is a popular houseplant due to its attractive appearance and easy care.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Aspleniaceae |
| Genus | Asplenium |
Appearance
The holly fern has dark green, glossy, and leathery fronds that are pinnatifid and serrated. The fronds can grow up to 60 cm long and 20 cm wide. The plant has a clumping growth habit and can reach a height of up to 60 cm. The holly fern produces spores on the underside of its fronds, which are brown in color.
Care Guide
The holly fern is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some care tips for the holly fern:
Water: The holly fern prefers moist soil, so it should be watered regularly. However, it is important not to overwater the plant, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: The holly fern does not require frequent fertilization. It can be fertilized once or twice a year with a balanced fertilizer.
Soil: The holly fern prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: The holly fern prefers bright, indirect sunlight. It can also tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: The holly fern is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The holly fern is relatively pest and disease resistant, but it can be susceptible to mealybugs and scale insects. These pests can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The holly fern can also be susceptible to root rot if overwatered.
Habitat
The holly fern is native to New Zealand and can also be found in southeastern Australia. It grows on rocks, cliffs, and in moist forests. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types and can even grow in nutrient-poor soils.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the holly fern be grown outdoors?
A: Yes, the holly fern can be grown outdoors in USDA zones 8-11.
Q: Does the holly fern require a lot of sunlight?
A: No, the holly fern prefers bright, indirect sunlight.
Q: How often should the holly fern be fertilized?
A: The holly fern does not require frequent fertilization. It can be fertilized once or twice a year with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can the holly fern be propagated?
A: Yes, the holly fern can be propagated by spores or division.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to the holly fern:
- Asplenium Bulbiferum
- Asplenium Nidus
- Asplenium Scolopendrium
References
- “Asplenium Pinnatifidum.” PlantNet. Accessed 28 May 2021. https://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Asplenium~pinnatifidum
- “Asplenium Pinnatifidum.” The Ferns of New Zealand. Accessed 28 May 2021. http://www.ferns.org.nz/species/asplenium-pinnatifidum
- “Holly Fern Care: How To Grow Asplenium Pinnatifidum.” Gardening Know How. Accessed 28 May 2021. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/holly-fern/holly-fern-care.htm
