Contents
Description
Cyrtomium macrophyllum, commonly known as the Giant Japanese Holly Fern, is an evergreen fern that is native to Japan, Taiwan, and the Philippines. It is a member of the family Dryopteridaceae and is known for its large, holly-like fronds that can grow up to 3 feet in length. The fronds are dark green and glossy, with sharply toothed edges. Cyrtomium macrophyllum is a slow-growing plant that can reach a mature height of up to 4 feet. It is a popular ornamental plant that is often grown in shady gardens or as a houseplant.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Kingdom | Phylum | Class | Order | Family | Genus ||——–|———|——–|——-|——-|——–|——-|| Eukarya | Plantae | Pteridophyta | Polypodiopsida | Polypodiales | Dryopteridaceae | Cyrtomium |
Appearance
The Cyrtomium macrophyllum has large, glossy fronds that resemble holly leaves. The fronds can grow up to 3 feet in length and are dark green in color. They have sharply toothed edges and a leathery texture. The plant itself can reach a mature height of up to 4 feet and has a clumping growth habit. The rhizomes are brown and scaly, and the plant produces spores on the underside of the fronds.
Care Guide
Water: Cyrtomium macrophyllum prefers consistently moist soil, but not waterlogged. Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil damp but not saturated.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.Soil: Plant Cyrtomium macrophyllum in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil pH of 6.0 to 7.5 is ideal.Sunlight: This plant prefers partial to full shade. Direct sunlight can scorch the fronds.Hardiness Zones: Cyrtomium macrophyllum is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cyrtomium macrophyllum is generally pest-free, but it can be susceptible to mealybugs and scale insects. To prevent these pests, keep the plant clean and free of debris, and monitor it regularly for signs of infestation. The plant can also be susceptible to root rot if overwatered.
Habitat
Cyrtomium macrophyllum is native to Japan, Taiwan, and the Philippines. It grows in shaded areas, such as the forest floor, and is often found growing on rocks or in rock crevices. In its native habitat, it can grow up to 6 feet in height.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cyrtomium macrophyllum a good houseplant?
A: Yes, Cyrtomium macrophyllum can make a great houseplant as long as it is given the proper care.Q: How often should I water my Cyrtomium macrophyllum?
A: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil damp but not saturated. Aim to water it once a week.Q: Can Cyrtomium macrophyllum grow in full sun?
A: No, Cyrtomium macrophyllum prefers partial to full shade. Direct sunlight can scorch the fronds.Q: Does Cyrtomium macrophyllum produce spores?
A: Yes, Cyrtomium macrophyllum produces spores on the underside of the fronds.
Related Plants
- Cyrtomium falcatum
- Cyrtomium fortunei
- Cyrtomium lepidophyllum
References
- Flora of China: Cyrtomium macrophyllum
- RHS: Cyrtomium macrophyllum
- University of Florida IFAS Extension: Cyrtomium macrophyllum
