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Description
Botrychium Crenulatum, commonly known as the scalloped moonwort, is a small, perennial fern that belongs to the Ophioglossaceae family. This fern is native to the United States and is found in the eastern part of the country. The scalloped moonwort is a rare plant and is considered endangered in some states. It has a unique appearance with a single, erect stem that can grow up to 30 cm tall. This fern produces spores on the underside of its fronds, which are used for reproduction.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Ophioglossopsida |
| Order | Ophioglossales |
| Family | Ophioglossaceae |
| Genus | Botrychium |
Appearance
The Botrychium Crenulatum has a single, erect stem that can grow up to 30 cm tall. The fronds of this fern are triangular and have a scalloped edge, which gives it its common name, scalloped moonwort. The fronds are usually light green in color and have a smooth texture. The spores of this fern are produced on the underside of the fronds and are arranged in a linear pattern.
Care Guide
The Botrychium Crenulatum is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. It is tolerant of a wide range of soil types and can grow in both moist and dry conditions. Here are some care tips for this fern:- Water: This fern prefers moist soil, but it can tolerate periods of drought. Water it regularly, but do not overwater it as this can lead to root rot.- Fertilization: This fern does not require fertilization, but you can add a slow-release fertilizer to the soil in the spring to encourage growth.- Soil: This fern can grow in a wide range of soil types, but it prefers well-draining soil.- Sunlight: This fern prefers partial shade to full shade.- Hardiness Zones: This fern is hardy in USDA zones 4-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Botrychium Crenulatum is not generally affected by pests or diseases. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases in wet conditions. Here are some common pests and diseases to watch out for:- Slugs and snails: These pests can eat the fronds of the fern, causing damage to the plant.- Fungal diseases: This fern can be susceptible to fungal diseases in wet conditions, which can cause the fronds to wilt and turn brown.
Habitat
The Botrychium Crenulatum is native to the United States and is found in the eastern part of the country. This fern prefers moist, shady habitats and can be found in woodlands, meadows, and along streams.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Botrychium Crenulatum easy to grow?
A: Yes, this fern is easy to grow and requires minimal care.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Botrychium Crenulatum?
A: This fern is hardy in USDA zones 4-7.
Q: Can the Botrychium Crenulatum tolerate drought?
A: Yes, this fern can tolerate periods of drought.
Q: Is the Botrychium Crenulatum an endangered plant?
A: Yes, this fern is considered endangered in some states.
Related Plants
– Botrychium Lunaria- Botrychium Matricariifolium- Botrychium Oneidense- Botrychium Virginianum
References
– Flora of North America. (n.d.). Botrychium crenulatum. Retrieved from http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=1&taxon_id=200003925- US Forest Service. (n.d.). Botrychium crenulatum. Retrieved from https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/botrychium_crenulatum.shtml
