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Description
Athyrium Filix-Femina, also known as Lady Fern, is a deciduous fern that belongs to the family Athyriaceae. This plant is native to Europe, Asia, North America, and Africa, and can grow up to three feet tall with a spread of two feet. The leaves of this fern are lance-shaped, light green, and can grow up to 3 feet long. It is a popular ornamental plant in gardens and landscaping due to its attractive foliage.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Athyriaceae |
| Genus | Athyrium |
Appearance
The leaves of Athyrium Filix-Femina are lance-shaped, light green, and can grow up to three feet long. The fronds are delicate and feathery in appearance, growing upright in a vase-like shape. The plant has a clumping habit and spreads by underground rhizomes. Its stems are thin and covered in brown scales.
Care Guide
Water
Athyrium Filix-Femina is a moisture-loving plant that requires consistent watering. Water the plant regularly, ensuring that the soil remains consistently moist. Do not let the soil dry out completely.
Fertilization
Fertilize Athyrium Filix-Femina once a month during the growing season with a balanced, liquid fertilizer.
Soil
Athyrium Filix-Femina prefers well-draining, loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant thrives in soil that is slightly acidic to neutral, with a pH range of 5.5-7.0.
Sunlight
Athyrium Filix-Femina prefers partial to full shade and does not tolerate direct sunlight.
Hardiness Zones
Athyrium Filix-Femina is hardy to USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Athyrium Filix-Femina is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases, including:
- Slugs and snails: These pests can cause damage to the leaves by feeding on the foliage. Use slug bait or diatomaceous earth to control these pests.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and improve air circulation to prevent the spread of the disease.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering and poorly draining soil. Ensure that the soil is well-draining and do not let the plant sit in standing water.
Habitat
Athyrium Filix-Femina is found in a variety of habitats, including moist woodlands, marshes, and stream banks. The plant prefers cool, moist environments and does not tolerate drought or high heat.
Question and Answer
- Q: Can Athyrium Filix-Femina tolerate drought?
- A: No, Athyrium Filix-Femina does not tolerate drought and requires consistent watering.
- Q: What is the ideal pH range for Athyrium Filix-Femina?
- A: Athyrium Filix-Femina prefers soil that is slightly acidic to neutral, with a pH range of 5.5-7.0.
- Q: What is the hardiness zone for Athyrium Filix-Femina?
- A: Athyrium Filix-Femina is hardy to USDA zones 3-8.
- Q: How often should I fertilize Athyrium Filix-Femina?
- A: Fertilize Athyrium Filix-Femina once a month during the growing season with a balanced, liquid fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Athyrium niponicum
- Athyrium otophorum
- Athyrium pycnocarpon
- Athyrium felix-femina
References
- “Lady Fern (Athyrium filix-femina).” Garden Design, www.gardendesign.com/plants/lady-fern/.
- “Athyrium filix-femina (Lady Fern).” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287167&isprofile=0&basic=Athyrium%20filix-femina.
- “Athyrium filix-femina (Lady Fern).” North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox, plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/athyrium-filix-femina/.
