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Description
Deparia acrostichoides, also known as silvery spleenwort, is a fern species native to North America. It belongs to the Athyriaceae family and is commonly found in moist woods, rocky slopes, and stream banks. This fern species is deciduous and grows up to 2 feet in height.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Athyriaceae |
| Genus | Deparia |
Appearance
Deparia acrostichoides has fronds that grow in a cluster from a central rhizome. The fronds are bipinnate and have a triangular shape. They are dark green in color with a silvery underside, which gives the plant its common name of silvery spleenwort. The fronds can grow up to 2 feet in length and 1 foot in width. The plant also produces spores on the underside of the fronds.
Care Guide
Water
Deparia acrostichoides prefers to grow in moist soil, so it is important to water it regularly. However, it is also important to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Deparia acrostichoides does not require regular fertilization, but it can benefit from a light application of balanced fertilizer in the spring.
Soil
Deparia acrostichoides prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in both acidic and alkaline soils.
Sunlight
Deparia acrostichoides prefers partial shade to full shade. It can tolerate some sunlight, but too much direct sunlight can scorch the fronds.
Hardiness Zones
Deparia acrostichoides is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Deparia acrostichoides is susceptible to fungal diseases such as rust and leaf spots. It is also vulnerable to pests such as aphids and spider mites. Regular inspection and prompt treatment can help prevent these issues from becoming severe.
Habitat
Deparia acrostichoides is native to North America and is commonly found in moist woods, rocky slopes, and stream banks. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types and pH levels.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Deparia acrostichoides grow in full sunlight?
A: While Deparia acrostichoides can tolerate some sunlight, it prefers partial shade to full shade. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the fronds.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Deparia acrostichoides?
A: Deparia acrostichoides is susceptible to fungal diseases such as rust and leaf spots. It is also vulnerable to pests such as aphids and spider mites.
Q: How often should I water Deparia acrostichoides?
A: Deparia acrostichoides prefers to grow in moist soil, so it is important to water it regularly. However, it is also important to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Deparia acrostichoides?
A: Deparia acrostichoides is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Related Plants
- Deparia petersenii
- Deparia lancea
- Deparia japonica
References
- Flora of North America
- Missouri Botanical Garden
- RHS Gardening
