Contents
Description
Dendrohypopterygium is a genus of epiphytic ferns belonging to the family Polypodiaceae. The genus comprises only one species, Dendrohypopterygium cubense, which is native to Cuba and the Caribbean. The plant grows on tree trunks, rocks or other plants, but it is not a parasite. Its leaves are simple and undivided, and the plant can grow up to 60 cm in length.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain| Kingdom| Phylum| Class| Order| Family| Genus||————|————|————-|————-|————-|————-|——————–|| Eukaryota| Plantae| Pteridophyta | Polypodiopsida | Polypodiales | Polypodiaceae | Dendrohypopterygium |
Appearance
Dendrohypopterygium has simple, undivided leaves that range from light green to dark green in color. The leaves are lance-shaped and grow up to 25 cm long and 4 cm wide. They are leathery and glossy with a slightly wavy margin. The plant does not produce flowers or seeds since it reproduces through spores.
Care Guide
Dendrohypopterygium is an easy plant to care for. Here are some tips on how to take care of it:- Water: Dendrohypopterygium prefers to be kept moist but not waterlogged. Water it once a week or when the top inch of soil feels dry.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: Dendrohypopterygium grows best in a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight, which can scorch its leaves.- Hardiness Zones: Dendrohypopterygium is hardy in USDA zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dendrohypopterygium is relatively pest-free, but it can be susceptible to mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. To prevent these pests, keep the plant clean and avoid overwatering. If you notice any signs of infestation, treat the plant with a mild insecticide or soap solution.
Habitat
Dendrohypopterygium is native to Cuba and the Caribbean, where it grows on tree trunks, rocks, and other plants in humid forests. It is an epiphytic plant that does not require soil to grow. In cultivation, it is often grown in hanging baskets, mounted on a board or grown on a piece of bark.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Dendrohypopterygium a rare plant?
A: Yes, Dendrohypopterygium is considered a rare plant due to its limited distribution and habitat loss.
Q: Can Dendrohypopterygium be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Dendrohypopterygium can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with bright, indirect light and proper care.
Q: How often should I fertilize Dendrohypopterygium?
A: Fertilize Dendrohypopterygium once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Dendrohypopterygium tolerate direct sunlight?
A: No, Dendrohypopterygium prefers bright, indirect sunlight and can be damaged by direct sunlight.
Related Plants
– Polypodium aureum- Phlebodium aureum- Platycerium bifurcatum- Davallia fejeensis- Asplenium nidus
References
– The Plant List. (n.d.). Dendrohypopterygium. Retrieved from http://www.theplantlist.org/1.1/browse/P/Polypodiaceae/Dendrohypopterygium/- American Fern Society. (n.d.). Dendrohypopterygium cubense. Retrieved from https://www.amerfernsoc.org/learn-about-ferns/culture-sheets/dendrohypopterygium-cubense/- Gardening Know How. (2021). Cuban Tree Fern Care: Tips On Growing Cuban Tree Ferns. Retrieved from https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/foliage/cuban-tree-fern/cuban-tree-fern-care.htm
