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Description
Calciphilopteris Ludens, also known as the limestone fern or the rock-loving fern, is a species of fern that belongs to the family Thelypteridaceae. It is native to Asia and can be found in countries such as China, Taiwan, Japan, and Korea. This fern is known for its ability to grow in rocky areas, limestone cliffs, and crevices. It is a small fern, growing up to 30cm in height, with delicate and finely divided fronds that are green in color. The fronds of Calciphilopteris Ludens are typically bipinnate, meaning that they have two rows of leaflets branching off the central stem.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Thelypteridales |
| Family | Thelypteridaceae |
| Genus | Calciphilopteris |
Appearance
The fronds of Calciphilopteris Ludens are delicate and finely divided, with a green coloration. They are typically bipinnate, meaning that they have two rows of leaflets branching off the central stem. The fronds grow up to 30cm in height and are arranged in a rosette pattern. The plant produces small spores that are located on the undersides of the fronds.
Care Guide
Calciphilopteris Ludens is a relatively easy fern to care for, but it does require some specific conditions to thrive. Here are some care tips:
- Water: The fern prefers consistently moist soil, but it should not be waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: Feed the fern with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: The fern prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of peat moss and perlite is a good choice.
- Sunlight: Calciphilopteris Ludens prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the fronds.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Calciphilopteris Ludens is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to spider mites and scale insects. These pests can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The fern can also be prone to root rot if it is overwatered or if the soil does not drain properly.
Habitat
Calciphilopteris Ludens is native to Asia and can be found in countries such as China, Taiwan, Japan, and Korea. It is known for its ability to grow in rocky areas, limestone cliffs, and crevices. The fern prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter and bright, indirect sunlight.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Calciphilopteris Ludens easy to care for?
A: Yes, the fern is relatively easy to care for, but it does require specific conditions to thrive.
Q: What kind of soil does Calciphilopteris Ludens prefer?
A: The fern prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of peat moss and perlite is a good choice.
Q: What pests can affect Calciphilopteris Ludens?
A: The fern can be susceptible to spider mites and scale insects. These pests can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Calciphilopteris Ludens?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Related Plants
- Calciphilopteris Hymenophylloides
- Calciphilopteris Japonica
- Calciphilopteris Radicans
References
- “Calciphilopteris Ludens.” Flora of China, efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=2&taxon_id=200003239.
- “Calciphilopteris Ludens.” Missouri Botanical Garden, missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=e678.
- “Calciphilopteris Ludens.” World Ferns, world-ferns.org/species/Calciphilopteris_ludens.htm.
