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Description
Blechnum Appendiculatum is a unique fern species that belongs to the family Blechnaceae. It is native to New Zealand and is commonly known as the King Fern or Maori umbrella fern. This species is known for its large fronds that can grow up to 2 meters long and 60cm wide. The fronds are leathery and have a glossy texture, which makes them stand out from other fern species.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Blechnaceae |
| Genus | Blechnum |
| Species | Appendiculatum |
Appearance
Blechnum Appendiculatum has large fronds that are leathery and glossy. The fronds can grow up to 2 meters long and 60cm wide. They are typically dark green in color, and the undersides of the fronds have a lighter green hue. The fronds are bipinnate, which means they have multiple divisions. The divisions are narrow and elongated, giving the fronds a feather-like appearance. The sporangia, which are the structures that produce spores, are located on the underside of the fronds and are covered by a protective flap called an indusium.
Care Guide
B. Appendiculatum is a hardy fern species that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to take care of this plant:
- Water: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely.
- Fertilization: Fertilize with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
- Soil: Plant in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: B. Appendiculatum prefers partial shade to full shade. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight, as this can scorch the fronds.
- Hardiness Zones: This species is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
B. Appendiculatum is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant may also be susceptible to root rot if the soil is consistently waterlogged.
Habitat
B. Appendiculatum is native to New Zealand and is commonly found in forested areas. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial to full shade. It is a hardy plant and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Can B. Appendiculatum be grown indoors?
A: Yes, this species can be grown indoors as long as it is placed in a location that receives partial to full shade.
Q: How often should I water B. Appendiculatum?
A: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Watering frequency will depend on the humidity and temperature of your environment.
Q: Can B. Appendiculatum be propagated?
A: Yes, this species can be propagated through spores or division of the rhizome.
Q: Is B. Appendiculatum toxic to pets?
A: No, this plant is not toxic to pets.
Related Plants
- Blechnum chilense
- Blechnum gibbum
- Blechnum occidentale
- Blechnum penna-marina
References
- https://www.rnzih.org.nz/pages/blechnum-appendiculatum/
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/blechnum-appendiculatum-king-fern-maori-umbrella-fern
- https://www.nzpcn.org.nz/flora/species/blechnum-appendiculatum/
