Contents
Description
Diplazium Dilatatum is a species of fern that belongs to the family Athyriaceae. It is commonly found in Asia and Australia, where it grows in moist, shady areas such as rainforests and swamps. This fern has a unique appearance with fronds that can grow up to 1 meter long and 20 centimeters wide. The fronds are bipinnate, meaning they have multiple leaflets that are divided into smaller segments.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Athyriaceae |
| Genus | Diplazium |
Appearance
The fronds of Diplazium Dilatatum are bipinnate and can grow up to 1 meter long and 20 centimeters wide. The leaflets are divided into smaller segments, giving the fronds a delicate and lacy appearance. The fronds emerge from a rhizome, which is a horizontal stem that grows underground. The rhizome of Diplazium Dilatatum is thick and covered with brown scales.
Care Guide
Diplazium Dilatatum is a relatively easy fern to care for as long as it is given the right conditions. Here are some tips for caring for this fern:
- Water: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: Feed with a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 months during the growing season (spring and summer).
- Soil: Plant in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Diplazium Dilatatum prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some shade.
- Hardiness Zones: This fern is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Diplazium Dilatatum is relatively pest and disease resistant, but it can be susceptible to some problems:
- Scale Insects: These small, oval insects can attach themselves to the fronds and suck the sap, causing yellowing and wilting. Use a horticultural oil or soap to control.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling on the fronds. Keep the humidity high to discourage them, and use a miticide if necessary.
- Fungal Diseases: Diplazium Dilatatum can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as leaf spot and rust. To prevent, avoid overhead watering and ensure good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Diplazium Dilatatum is native to Asia and Australia, where it grows in moist, shady areas such as rainforests and swamps. It can also be found in other tropical regions around the world where the conditions are right.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Diplazium Dilatatum be grown indoors?
A: Yes, this fern can be grown indoors as long as it is given bright, indirect light and consistently moist soil.
Q: Can Diplazium Dilatatum tolerate drought?
A: No, this fern prefers consistently moist soil and will not tolerate drought.
Q: How often should Diplazium Dilatatum be fertilized?
A: Feed with a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 months during the growing season (spring and summer).
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Diplazium Dilatatum?
A: This fern is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Diplazium esculentum
- Diplazium polypodioides
- Diplazium spicant
References
- “Diplazium Dilatatum.” The Plant List, www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/tro-26606818.
- “Diplazium Dilatatum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286204&isprofile=0&basic=dilatatum.
- “Diplazium Dilatatum.” Plant Care Today, plantcaretoday.com/diplazium-dilatatum.html.
