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Description
Botrychium Pinnatum, also known as the Tundra Grape Fern, is a species of fern that is native to North America. It is part of the Ophioglossaceae family and is known for its unique appearance, with a frond that resembles a miniature grape vine. The frond is made up of numerous pinnate leaflets that are arranged in a circular pattern. This fern typically grows to be about 12 inches tall and can be found in a variety of habitats, including meadows, woodlands, and wetlands.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Ophioglossopsida |
| Order | Ophioglossales |
| Family | Ophioglossaceae |
| Genus | Botrychium |
Appearance
The Botrychium Pinnatum has a unique appearance that sets it apart from other ferns. Its frond is made up of numerous pinnate leaflets that are arranged in a circular pattern, resembling a miniature grape vine. The leaflets are a bright green color and are slightly hairy. The frond typically grows to be about 12 inches tall and is supported by a slender stem that is covered in brown scales. The fern also produces a spore-bearing structure called a sporangium that is located at the base of the frond.
Care Guide
To care for the Botrychium Pinnatum, it is important to provide it with the proper amount of water, fertilizer, soil, sunlight, and to ensure it is planted in the right hardiness zone.- Water: This fern prefers moist soil, so it is important to keep the soil consistently damp. However, it is important not to overwater it as this can lead to root rot.- Fertilization: Fertilizing this fern once a month with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season can help it grow strong and healthy.- Soil: This fern prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: This fern thrives in shaded areas and prefers indirect sunlight.- Hardiness Zones: The Botrychium Pinnatum is hardy in zones 2-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Botrychium Pinnatum is relatively pest and disease-free; however, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. It is important to ensure that the soil is well-draining and not watered excessively to prevent this from occurring.
Habitat
The Botrychium Pinnatum can be found in a variety of habitats, including meadows, woodlands, and wetlands. It prefers shaded areas and moist soils.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Botrychium Pinnatum a good choice for a beginner gardener?
A: Yes, this fern is relatively easy to care for and is a good choice for a beginner gardener.
Q: Does the Botrychium Pinnatum require a lot of sunlight?
A: No, this fern prefers shaded areas and indirect sunlight.
Q: Can the Botrychium Pinnatum be grown indoors?
A: Yes, this fern can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with the proper amount of water, fertilizer, and sunlight.
Q: How often should the Botrychium Pinnatum be fertilized?
A: This fern should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
– Botrychium Dissectum- Botrychium Lunaria- Botrychium Multifidum- Botrychium Oneidense
References
– “Botrychium Pinnatum.” The Plants Database, 2021, plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=BOPIN.- “Botrychium Pinnatum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, 2021, missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=278532&isprofile=0&.- “Tundra Grape Fern.” Illinois Wildflowers, 2021, illinoiswildflowers.info/grasses/plants/t_grapefern.html.
