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Description
Christella Puberula, commonly known as the Hairy Lip Fern, is a fern species that belongs to the family Thelypteridaceae. It is native to Asia, specifically found in China, Taiwan, Japan, and Korea. This species of fern is deciduous, meaning it loses its leaves during the winter months.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Thelypteridales |
| Family | Thelypteridaceae |
| Genus | Christella |
Appearance
The Hairy Lip Fern has a rhizomatous growth habit, meaning it spreads through underground stems called rhizomes. Its fronds can grow up to 60 cm in length and 20 cm in width. They are bipinnate, meaning they have twice-pinnate leaflets. The leaflets are oblong-lanceolate and have a pointed tip. The fronds have a dark green color and a leathery texture. The undersides of the fronds have a hairy appearance, hence the name Hairy Lip Fern.
Care Guide
Christella Puberula is a low maintenance plant that thrives in shaded areas. Here are some tips to care for your Hairy Lip Fern:
- Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize once a month during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The Hairy Lip Fern prefers partial shade to full shade.
- Hardiness Zones: This fern is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Hairy Lip Fern is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to the following:
- Scale insects: These pests can be controlled by using insecticidal soap.
- Root rot: This can be caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Plant in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Christella Puberula is native to Asia, specifically found in China, Taiwan, Japan, and Korea. It grows in shaded areas, such as forests and mountain slopes.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Hairy Lip Fern be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the Hairy Lip Fern can be grown indoors as long as it is placed in a shaded area and provided with enough moisture.
Q: How often should I water my Hairy Lip Fern?
A: Water your Hairy Lip Fern when the soil starts to dry out. Make sure not to overwater as this can lead to root rot.
Q: Can the Hairy Lip Fern tolerate full sun?
A: No, the Hairy Lip Fern prefers partial shade to full shade.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Hairy Lip Fern?
A: The Hairy Lip Fern is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Related Plants
- Christella Parasitica
- Christella Odorata
- Christella Dentata
- Christella Affinis
References
- Flora of China. (n.d.). Christella puberula (C. Presl) Ching. Retrieved March 23, 2021, from http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=2&taxon_id=200004279
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Christella puberula. Retrieved March 23, 2021, from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282934&isprofile=0&basic=christella%20puberula
- Plantz Africa. (n.d.). Christella puberula. Retrieved March 23, 2021, from https://www.plantzafrica.com/plantcd/christpub.htm
