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Description
Diphasiastrum Digitatum, commonly known as Ground Cedar, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Lycopodiaceae family. It is native to the Northern Hemisphere and is found in North America, Europe, and Asia. The plant is characterized by its upright, branching stems that produce small, needle-like leaves in whorls around the stem. It reproduces through spores that are produced in cone-like structures at the tips of the stems.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Lycopodiophyta |
| Class | Lycopodiopsida |
| Order | Lycopodiales |
| Family | Lycopodiaceae |
| Genus | Diphasiastrum |
Appearance
Diphasiastrum Digitatum grows up to 20-30 cm tall and has a spreading habit. Its stems are reddish-brown and have a rough texture, with small leaves that are about 4-8 mm long and 1 mm wide. The leaves are arranged in whorls around the stem and have a needle-like appearance. The spore-producing cones are located at the tips of the upright stems and are about 1-2 cm long. The cones are initially green but turn brown as they mature.
Care Guide
Diphasiastrum Digitatum is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. Here are some care tips:
- Water: The plant prefers moist soil, so water it regularly, especially during dry periods.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization.
- Soil: The plant grows well in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full shade and does not tolerate direct sunlight.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 2-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Diphasiastrum Digitatum is generally pest-free and disease-resistant. However, it may be susceptible to fungal diseases such as rust and leaf spot. To prevent these diseases, avoid overwatering and ensure good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Diphasiastrum Digitatum is commonly found in moist, shaded areas such as forests, bogs, and wetlands. It prefers acidic soils and can tolerate low-nutrient conditions. The plant is known to be an indicator of healthy, undisturbed ecosystems.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Diphasiastrum Digitatum a good plant for landscaping?
A: Diphasiastrum Digitatum is not commonly used in landscaping due to its small size and spreading habit. However, it can be used as a groundcover in shaded areas.
Q: Can Diphasiastrum Digitatum tolerate drought?
A: Diphasiastrum Digitatum prefers moist soil and does not tolerate drought well. It is best to water it regularly.
Q: How does Diphasiastrum Digitatum reproduce?
A: Diphasiastrum Digitatum reproduces through spores that are produced in cone-like structures at the tips of the stems.
Q: Is Diphasiastrum Digitatum an endangered species?
A: Diphasiastrum Digitatum is not considered an endangered species, but it is protected in some areas due to its importance as an indicator of healthy ecosystems.
Related Plants
- Diphasiastrum Alpinum
- Diphasiastrum Complanatum
- Diphasiastrum Sitchense
- Diphasiastrum Tristachyum
References
- Flora of North America North of Mexico, vol. 2, Oxford University Press, 1993.
- USDA Plants Database, Diphasiastrum Digitatum, https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=DIDI, Accessed 26 Aug. 2021.
- Missouri Botanical Garden, Diphasiastrum Digitatum, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=f390, Accessed 26 Aug. 2021.
