Contents
Description
Helminthostachys Zeylanica, commonly known as the Sri Lankan ribbon fern, is a unique fern species that is native to Sri Lanka and India. It is a member of the family Ophioglossaceae, which includes other ferns commonly known as adders-tongue ferns. This plant has an interesting life cycle, as it is divided into two phases: the sporophyte phase, which is the visible phase that produces spores, and the gametophyte phase, which is the smaller, underground phase responsible for producing eggs and sperm. The plant’s sporophyte phase consists of a long, ribbon-like frond that grows up to 1 meter in length, with several pairs of pinnae (small leaflets) on either side.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Monilophyta |
| Class | Ophioglossopsida |
| Order | Ophioglossales |
| Family | Ophioglossaceae |
| Genus | Helminthostachys |
Appearance
The Helminthostachys Zeylanica is a unique fern species that has a long, ribbon-like frond that grows up to 1 meter in length. The frond is a deep green color and is composed of several pairs of pinnae (small leaflets) on either side. The plant’s sporophyte phase is the visible phase that produces spores, and it can be distinguished from other ferns by its ribbon-like frond that has a distinct midrib.
Care Guide
To care for Helminthostachys Zeylanica, it is important to provide it with the right amount of water, fertilization, soil, sunlight, and hardiness zones. Water: This plant requires moderate watering, and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Fertilization: Fertilization should be done during the growing season, from spring to fall, with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Sunlight: It prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun if the soil is kept moist. Hardiness Zones: It is generally hardy in zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Helminthostachys Zeylanica is generally free of pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is kept too wet.
Habitat
Helminthostachys Zeylanica is native to Sri Lanka and India and can be found growing in moist, shady areas near streams and waterfalls.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Helminthostachys Zeylanica be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with the right amount of light and moisture.
Q: How often should I fertilize Helminthostachys Zeylanica?
A: Fertilize during the growing season, from spring to fall, with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
Q: How often should I water Helminthostachys Zeylanica?
A: Moderate watering is required, and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
Q: Is Helminthostachys Zeylanica a good plant for a water garden?
A: Yes, it can be grown in a water garden, as long as it is provided with the right amount of sunlight and moisture.
Related Plants
– Helminthostachys Zeylanica var. Buergeri- Helminthostachys Zeylanica var. Ovata- Helminthostachys Zeylanica var. Pinnata
References
– The Plant List: Helminthostachys Zeylanica- Missouri Botanical Garden: Helminthostachys Zeylanica- Gardening Know How: Helminthostachys Zeylanica
