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Description
Diplopterygium Chinense, also known as the Chinese lip fern, is an evergreen plant that belongs to the family of Polypodiaceae. It is native to China, Taiwan, and Japan, and can be found in a variety of habitats such as forests, hillsides, and rocky areas. This fern has a unique feature of producing two different types of leaves, sterile and fertile. The sterile leaves are green and broad, while the fertile leaves are narrow and elongated. This plant is popular for ornamental purposes and is commonly used in terrariums and indoor gardens.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Polypodiaceae |
| Genus | Diplopterygium |
Appearance
The Diplopterygium Chinense plant can grow up to 60 cm in height and 80 cm in width. Its sterile leaves are broad and oval-shaped, measuring up to 20 cm in length and 12 cm in width. They are green in color and have a glossy texture. The fertile leaves, on the other hand, are narrow and elongated, measuring up to 60 cm in length and 0.5 cm in width. They are light green in color and have a delicate texture. The overall appearance of the plant is very attractive, making it a popular choice for indoor gardens and terrariums.
Care Guide
The Diplopterygium Chinense plant is relatively easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips to help you care for your plant:
- Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant once a week or when the soil feels dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Place the plant in a bright, indirect light location. Avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves.
- Hardiness Zones: Diplopterygium Chinense can grow in hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Diplopterygium Chinense plant is relatively pest and disease-free. However, here are some common issues that you may encounter:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause discoloration and webbing on the leaves. Use an insecticidal soap to treat the plant.
- Scale insects: These pests can cause the leaves to turn yellow and fall off. Use horticultural oil to treat the plant.
- Brown spots on leaves: This could be a sign of overwatering or poor drainage. Adjust your watering schedule and make sure the soil is well-draining.
Habitat
The Diplopterygium Chinense plant is native to China, Taiwan, and Japan. It can be found in a variety of habitats such as forests, hillsides, and rocky areas. It prefers a humid environment and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Diplopterygium Chinense toxic to pets?
A: No, this plant is not toxic to pets.
Q: Can Diplopterygium Chinense be grown outdoors?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown outdoors in hardiness zones 9-11.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Diplopterygium Chinense plant?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Diplopterygium Chinense tolerate low light conditions?
A: No, this plant prefers bright, indirect light conditions.
Related Plants
- Diplopterygium Glabrum
- Diplopterygium Laevissimum
- Diplopterygium Longissimum
- Diplopterygium Simile
References
- “Diplopterygium Chinense.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=l400.
- “Diplopterygium Chinense.” Plant Care Today, plantcaretoday.com/diplopterygium-chinense.
- “Diplopterygium Chinense.” The Plant List, www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/tro-26600612.
