Contents
Description
Crepidomanes Intricatum, also known as the intricate bladder fern, is a small epiphytic fern that belongs to the family Hymenophyllaceae. It is native to the tropical regions of Southeast Asia, including Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. This fern has a unique appearance, characterized by its delicate and intricate fronds that grow up to 10 cm in length. It is commonly found growing on the bark of trees or on rocks in shaded areas.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Hymenophyllales |
| Family | Hymenophyllaceae |
| Genus | Crepidomanes |
Appearance
Crepidomanes Intricatum has delicate and intricate fronds that grow up to 10 cm in length. The fronds are pinnate, meaning that they are divided into smaller leaflets that attach to a central stem. The leaflets are narrow and elongated, with a slightly wavy margin. The fronds are a bright green color and have a glossy appearance. The intricate bladder fern is an epiphytic plant, meaning that it grows on other plants or objects for support, rather than in soil.
Care Guide
Water
Crepidomanes Intricatum prefers moist conditions and should be watered regularly to keep the soil or substrate moist. However, it is important not to overwater the plant, as this can lead to root rot. It is best to water the plant when the top layer of soil or substrate feels dry to the touch.
Fertilization
Crepidomanes Intricatum does not require regular fertilization, but you can apply a diluted fertilizer once a month during the growing season to encourage healthy growth.
Soil
As an epiphytic plant, Crepidomanes Intricatum does not require soil and can be grown on a substrate such as sphagnum moss, coconut coir, or tree bark. The substrate should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
Sunlight
Crepidomanes Intricatum prefers shaded conditions and should be placed in a location that receives indirect or filtered light. Avoid exposing the plant to direct sunlight, as this can damage the delicate fronds.
Hardiness Zones
Crepidomanes Intricatum is not frost-tolerant and should be kept in a warm and humid environment. It is best suited for USDA hardiness zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Crepidomanes Intricatum is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can be susceptible to mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be susceptible to fungal diseases such as leaf spot and root rot, which can be prevented by maintaining good hygiene practices and avoiding overwatering.
Habitat
Crepidomanes Intricatum is native to the tropical regions of Southeast Asia, including Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. It is commonly found growing on the bark of trees or on rocks in shaded areas. The plant thrives in warm and humid conditions and prefers moist environments.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Crepidomanes Intricatum be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Crepidomanes Intricatum can be grown indoors as long as it is placed in a location that receives indirect or filtered light and is kept in a warm and humid environment.
Q: How often should I water Crepidomanes Intricatum?
A: Crepidomanes Intricatum should be watered regularly to keep the soil or substrate moist, but it is important not to overwater the plant. Water the plant when the top layer of soil or substrate feels dry to the touch.
Q: What is the best substrate to grow Crepidomanes Intricatum on?
A: Crepidomanes Intricatum can be grown on a variety of substrates such as sphagnum moss, coconut coir, or tree bark. The substrate should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
Q: What pests and diseases are common in Crepidomanes Intricatum?
A: Crepidomanes Intricatum is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can be susceptible to mealybugs, scale insects, spider mites, leaf spot, and root rot.
Related Plants
- Crepidomanes Aureum
- Crepidomanes Minus
- Crepidomanes Malabaricum
- Crepidomanes Nudum
References
- Amoroso, V. B., & Grau, J. (2006). A taxonomic revision of the genus Hymenophyllum (Hymenophyllaceae) in the Philippines. Edinburgh Journal of Botany, 63(3), 365-442.
- Ching, R. C. (1937). The Hymenophyllaceae of China. Sunyatsenia, 3, 117-165.
- Wikimedia Commons. (n.d.). File:Crepidomanes Intricatum 01.JPG. Retrieved from https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Crepidomanes_intricatum_01.JPG
