Contents
Description
Elaphoglossum Acrostichoides, commonly known as the American tongue fern, is a native North American plant that belongs to the family of Dryopteridaceae. It is an evergreen fern that grows in clumps and has a rhizomatous root. The plant produces fronds that can grow up to 3 feet in length and 4 inches in width.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Dryopteridaceae |
| Genus | Elaphoglossum |
Appearance
The American tongue fern has a unique appearance with its long and narrow fronds that are leathery to the touch. The fronds have a dark green color and are lance-shaped. The undersides of the fronds have a pale green color with small dots that are the spores of the plant. The plant grows in tight clumps, and its rhizomatous roots are dark brown in color.
Care Guide
To take care of the American tongue fern, you need to provide it with the right amount of water, fertilization, sunlight, and soil. It grows well in medium to bright light, but it can also tolerate low light conditions. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant requires regular watering, but you should avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot. Fertilize the plant once a month with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. The American tongue fern is hardy in USDA zones 6 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The American tongue fern is generally a healthy plant, but it can be susceptible to pests and diseases. Common pests that can affect the plant include spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs. You can control these pests by using insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by fungal diseases such as leaf spot and root rot. Ensure that the plant is not overwatered and that it has good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.
Habitat
The American tongue fern is native to North America and is commonly found in moist, shaded areas such as forests, swamps, and wetlands. It grows well in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Question and Answer
Q. Can the American tongue fern grow in full sun?
A. No, the plant prefers medium to bright light but can tolerate low light conditions.
Q. How often should I water my American tongue fern?
A. The plant requires regular watering, but you should avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
Q. Can the American tongue fern be grown indoors?
A. Yes, the plant can be grown indoors in a bright, humid location.
Q. How big can the fronds of the American tongue fern grow?
A. The fronds of the plant can grow up to 3 feet in length and 4 inches in width.
Related Plants
- Elaphoglossum Alatum
- Elaphoglossum Angulatum
- Elaphoglossum Apodum
- Elaphoglossum Biseriatum
References
- Flora of North America Editorial Committee. (1993). Flora of North America Vol. 2: Pteridophytes and Gymnosperms. Oxford University Press.
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (2021). Elaphoglossum acrostichoides. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=m980
- Rhoads, A. F., & Block, T. A. (2007). The Plants of Pennsylvania: An Illustrated Manual. University of Pennsylvania Press.
