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Description
Cyclosorus Interruptus, commonly known as the Interrupted Fern, is a species of fern that belongs to the family Thelypteridaceae. This fern is native to North America and can be found in various habitats such as woodlands, forests, and wetlands. It is a deciduous fern that grows up to 2 feet in height and 3 feet in width. This fern is named Interrupted Fern because its fertile fronds are separate from its sterile fronds, which creates a gap in the middle.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Thelypteridales |
| Family | Thelypteridaceae |
| Genus | Cyclosorus |
Appearance
The Interrupted Fern has two types of fronds: sterile and fertile. The sterile fronds are green, triangular, and lobed, while the fertile fronds are narrower and brown in color. The fertile fronds appear in the center of the plant and are taller than the sterile fronds. The Interrupted Fern produces spores on the undersides of the fertile fronds. The spores are covered by a thin, translucent layer called the indusium.
Care Guide
The Interrupted Fern is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to care for this fern:
- Water: The Interrupted Fern prefers consistently moist soil. Water it regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: This fern doesn’t require frequent fertilization. Fertilize it once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The Interrupted Fern prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. If you’re planting it in a container, use a potting mix that contains peat moss or compost.
- Sunlight: This fern prefers partial to full shade. Direct sunlight can scorch its leaves and cause them to turn yellow or brown.
- Hardiness Zones: The Interrupted Fern grows well in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Interrupted Fern is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as rust and leaf spot. If you notice discolored patches on the fronds, remove the affected fronds and treat the plant with a fungicide. This fern is also attractive to slugs and snails, which can damage its leaves. Use slug bait or copper tape to keep these pests away.
Habitat
The Interrupted Fern is native to North America and can be found in various habitats such as woodlands, forests, and wetlands. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial to full shade. This fern is commonly used in landscaping as a ground cover or border plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Interrupted Fern a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, the Interrupted Fern is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for.
Q: Can the Interrupted Fern grow in full sun?
A: No, the Interrupted Fern prefers partial to full shade.
Q: How often should I water the Interrupted Fern?
A: Water the Interrupted Fern regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Q: Can the Interrupted Fern survive in cold temperatures?
A: Yes, the Interrupted Fern is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 8.
Related Plants
- Cyclosorus Acuminatus
- Cyclosorus Dryopteris
- Cyclosorus Pteridoides
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Cyclosorus interruptus. Retrieved June 22, 2021, from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c395
- North Carolina State University. (n.d.). Interrupted fern. Retrieved June 22, 2021, from https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/cyclosorus-interruptus/
- University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum. (n.d.). Cyclosorus interruptus. Retrieved June 22, 2021, from https://arboretum.wisc.edu/visit/gardens/native-plant-garden/cyclosorus-interruptus/
