Contents
Description
Botrychium simplex, commonly known as little grape fern, is a species of fern that belongs to the Ophioglossaceae family. It is a small, perennial fern that grows up to 10-20cm in height. It has only one frond, which is divided into several branches, giving it a grape-like appearance. The frond is usually erect or slightly curved towards the ground.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Ophioglossopsida |
| Order | Ophioglossales |
| Family | Ophioglossaceae |
| Genus | Botrychium |
Appearance
The little grape fern has a unique appearance that makes it easily recognizable. Its fronds are usually erect or slightly curved towards the ground and are divided into several branches, giving it a grape-like appearance. The frond is usually green, but it can also be yellowish-green or brownish-green. The fronds grow from a small, underground rhizome.
Care Guide
The little grape fern is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this fern:
- Water: The little grape fern prefers moist soil, so it is important to keep the soil consistently moist. Water the fern regularly, but do not overwater it.
- Fertilization: The little grape fern does not require fertilization, but you can add some organic fertilizer to the soil during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
- Soil: The little grape fern prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. You can add some compost or peat moss to the soil to improve its quality.
- Sunlight: The little grape fern prefers partial to full shade. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much sun can damage the fronds.
- Hardiness Zones: The little grape fern is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The little grape fern is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases if the soil is too moist. To prevent fungal diseases, avoid overwatering the fern and ensure good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
The little grape fern is native to North America and can be found in a range of habitats, including moist woodlands, meadows, and prairies. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter and partial to full shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the little grape fern a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, the little grape fern is a good plant for beginners. It is easy to care for and does not require much maintenance.
Q: Can the little grape fern be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the little grape fern can be grown indoors, but it requires a humid environment and indirect sunlight.
Q: How often should I water the little grape fern?
A: The little grape fern prefers moist soil, so it is important to keep the soil consistently moist. Water the fern regularly, but do not overwater it.
Q: How tall does the little grape fern grow?
A: The little grape fern grows up to 10-20cm in height.
Related Plants
- Botrychium lunaria
- Botrychium matricariifolium
- Botrychium multifidum
References
- Flora of North America Editorial Committee. 1993. Flora of North America North of Mexico, Volume 2. Oxford University Press, New York.
- Hickman, J. C. 1993. The Jepson Manual: Higher Plants of California. University of California Press, Berkeley.
- USDA Plants Database. Botrychium simplex.
