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Description
Cystopteris Bulbifera, also known as the bulb-bearing bladder fern, is a species of fern native to North America. This deciduous perennial plant is a member of the Cystopteridaceae family and is characterized by its delicate fronds and bulbils that grow on the undersides of the leaves.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Cystopteridaceae |
| Genus | Cystopteris |
Appearance
Cystopteris Bulbifera has fronds that grow up to 45 cm (18 inches) long and are composed of many small, light green leaflets. The fronds are thin and delicate, with a triangular shape and a pointed tip. The bulbils that grow on the undersides of the leaves are small, round, and brown, and can be used to propagate the plant.
Care Guide
To care for Cystopteris Bulbifera, it is important to provide it with the right conditions. This fern prefers consistently moist soil that is well-draining and rich in organic matter. It also requires partial to full shade, as direct sunlight can scorch its delicate fronds. Watering should be done regularly, but care should be taken not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. Fertilization is not necessary, as the plant can get all the nutrients it needs from the soil. Cystopteris Bulbifera is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cystopteris Bulbifera is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can sometimes be attacked by slugs or snails, which can eat holes in its delicate fronds. In terms of diseases, the plant can be affected by rust or leaf spot, which can cause yellowing or browning of the leaves. These issues can be prevented by providing the plant with good air circulation and avoiding overwatering.
Habitat
Cystopteris Bulbifera is native to North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, wetlands, and rocky areas. It prefers moist soil and partial to full shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Cystopteris Bulbifera be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Cystopteris Bulbifera can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with partial to full shade and consistently moist soil.
Q: How often should I water Cystopteris Bulbifera?
A: Watering should be done regularly, but care should be taken not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
Q: Can Cystopteris Bulbifera be propagated?
A: Yes, Cystopteris Bulbifera can be propagated using the bulbils that grow on the undersides of the leaves.
Q: Does Cystopteris Bulbifera require fertilization?
A: No, fertilization is not necessary for Cystopteris Bulbifera, as the plant can get all the nutrients it needs from the soil.
Related Plants
Other species of Cystopteris include:
- Cystopteris fragilis
- Cystopteris tenuis
- Cystopteris bulbifera
- Cystopteris laurentiana
- Cystopteris protrusa
References
- “Cystopteris bulbifera.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 24, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280548&isprofile=0&basic=Cystopteris%20bulbifera.
- “Cystopteris bulbifera.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed August 24, 2021. http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:17126250-1.
- “Bulb-bearing Bladder Fern.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed August 24, 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=CYBU.
