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Description
Cheilanthes Distans, also known as the Spreading Lip Fern, is a species of fern that belongs to the family Pteridaceae. This fern is native to North America, particularly in the western United States, and is commonly found in dry, rocky areas such as cliffs and canyons. Cheilanthes Distans is a small fern that typically grows up to 12 inches tall and 12 inches wide. It is characterized by its dark green, triangular fronds that have a glossy texture and a unique, spreading lip-shaped indusium.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Pteridales |
| Family | Pteridaceae |
| Genus | Cheilanthes |
| Species | Cheilanthes Distans |
Appearance
Cheilanthes Distans is a small fern that features triangular fronds with a glossy texture. The fronds grow up to 12 inches tall and wide, and are dark green in color. The unique feature of this fern is the spreading lip-shaped indusium, which covers the sporangia on the underside of the fronds. This indusium can be light brown, tan, or reddish-brown in color, and adds an interesting texture to the fern.
Care Guide
To grow and care for Cheilanthes Distans, consider the following tips:Water: This fern prefers well-draining soil that is kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water your plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.Fertilization: Cheilanthes Distans does not require frequent fertilization. You can feed your fern with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month during the growing season.Soil: This fern prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. You can mix peat moss or compost into the soil to improve its texture and fertility.Sunlight: Cheilanthes Distans prefers bright, indirect light. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much can damage the fronds.Hardiness Zones: This fern is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cheilanthes Distans is generally a hardy fern that is not prone to many pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and mealybugs, which can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Overwatering can also lead to root rot, so make sure to let the soil dry out slightly between waterings.
Habitat
Cheilanthes Distans is native to North America, particularly in the western United States. It grows in dry, rocky areas such as cliffs and canyons, and is often found in areas with little to no soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cheilanthes Distans a good indoor plant?A: Yes, Cheilanthes Distans can be grown indoors as long as it receives bright, indirect light and is kept in well-draining soil.Q: Does Cheilanthes Distans require frequent fertilization?A: No, this fern does not require frequent fertilization. You can feed it with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month during the growing season.Q: Does Cheilanthes Distans attract any pollinators?A: No, this fern does not produce flowers or attract any pollinators.Q: Can Cheilanthes Distans tolerate direct sunlight?A: Yes, this fern can tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much can damage the fronds.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that you might be interested in:
- Cheilanthes Argentea
- Cheilanthes Lanosa
- Cheilanthes Wrightii
- Cheilanthes Tenuifolia
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Cheilanthes Distans
- Gardening Know How: Growing Lip Ferns: Tips On Caring For Lip Ferns In Gardens
- Gardening Channel: Lip Fern: Growing Cheilanthes
