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Description
Diplazium Squamigerum, also known as the Shield Fern, is a beautiful fern that is native to Southeast Asia. It is a member of the family Athyriaceae and is known for its shield-shaped leaves that are dark green in color. The plant can grow up to 2 feet tall and 1.5 feet wide, making it a great addition to any garden or indoor space.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Athyriaceae |
| Genus | Diplazium |
Appearance
The Shield Fern has a unique appearance with its shield-shaped leaves that are dark green in color. The fronds are bipinnate, meaning they have two rows of leaflets on each side of the stem. The leaves are also slightly asymmetrical, giving them a more natural look. The plant can grow up to 2 feet tall and 1.5 feet wide, making it a great addition to any garden or indoor space.
Care Guide
The Shield Fern is an easy plant to care for, making it perfect for beginners. Here are some tips for keeping your fern healthy:
- Water: The Shield Fern needs to be kept consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant monthly during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
- Soil: The Shield Fern prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full shade and should be kept out of direct sunlight.
- Hardiness Zones: The Shield Fern is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Shield Fern is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. If you notice any of these pests, treat the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be prone to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly draining soil.
Habitat
The Shield Fern is native to Southeast Asia and can be found growing in shaded areas, such as forests and riverbanks. It is a popular ornamental plant and is often grown as a houseplant or in shaded gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Shield Fern be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the Shield Fern can be grown indoors as long as it is placed in a shady spot and kept consistently moist.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Shield Fern?
A: Fertilize the plant monthly during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
Q: Does the Shield Fern prefer acidic or alkaline soil?
A: The Shield Fern prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.5-6.5.
Q: Can the Shield Fern tolerate drought?
A: No, the Shield Fern needs to be kept consistently moist and cannot tolerate drought.
Related Plants
- Diplazium esculentum – Vegetable Fern
- Diplazium laffanianum – Laffan’s Diplazium
- Diplazium tomentosum – Hairy Diplazium
References
- “Diplazium Squamigerum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277936&isprofile=0&basic=diplazium.
- “Diplazium Squamigerum.” World Flora Online, www.worldfloraonline.org/taxon/wfo-0000083890.
- “Diplazium Squamigerum.” Plants of the World Online, www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:17228860-1.
