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Description
Hymenophyllum Australe, also known as the Austral filmy fern, is a delicate and unique plant that belongs to the Hymenophyllaceae family. It is native to Australia, New Zealand, and some Pacific Islands, where it can be found growing in damp and shaded areas such as rainforests, gorges, and cliffs. This fern has a thin and wiry stem that can reach up to 40cm in length, with small and finely dissected fronds that grow in a horizontal and overlapping pattern. The fronds are usually light green or yellowish in color, and they have a translucent appearance that makes them look like delicate lace.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Hymenophyllales |
| Family | Hymenophyllaceae |
| Genus | Hymenophyllum |
Appearance
Hymenophyllum Australe has a unique and delicate appearance that makes it a popular choice for indoor decoration. The fronds are finely dissected and grow in a horizontal and overlapping pattern, giving the plant a lacy and translucent appearance. The fronds are usually light green or yellowish in color, and they can grow up to 10cm in length. The stem is thin and wiry, and it can reach up to 40cm in length. The plant is relatively small and compact, making it ideal for terrariums, hanging baskets, and small pots.
Care Guide
Hymenophyllum Australe is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it requires some specific conditions to thrive. Here are some tips on how to take care of it:
- Water: Hymenophyllum Australe prefers moist soil, but it should not be constantly wet. Water the plant once or twice a week, depending on the humidity level and temperature. Avoid getting water on the fronds, as this can cause them to rot.
- Fertilization: Hymenophyllum Australe does not require frequent fertilization, but you can add a small amount of liquid fertilizer to the water once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: Hymenophyllum Australe prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Use a mix of peat moss, perlite, and sand to create a light and airy soil that allows for good drainage.
- Sunlight: Hymenophyllum Australe prefers bright, but indirect sunlight. Place the plant near a window that receives filtered light or put it under artificial light for 12-16 hours a day.
- Hardiness Zones: Hymenophyllum Australe is hardy in USDA zones 9-11, meaning it can tolerate temperatures between 20-30°C (68-86°F).
Common Pests & Diseases
Hymenophyllum Australe is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be affected by some common issues:
- Mealybugs: These small, white insects can infest the fronds and suck the sap, causing the plant to weaken and die. Use a cotton swab dipped in alcohol or insecticidal soap to remove the bugs.
- Scale insects: These small, brown insects can also infest the fronds and cause damage. Use the same method as for mealybugs to remove them.
- Fungal diseases: Hymenophyllum Australe can be affected by fungal diseases such as leaf spot and powdery mildew, especially in humid conditions. Remove affected fronds and apply a fungicide to prevent further spread.
Habitat
Hymenophyllum Australe is native to Australia, New Zealand, and some Pacific Islands, where it can be found growing in damp and shaded areas such as rainforests, gorges, and cliffs. It prefers humid and cool conditions, and it can grow on rocks, tree trunks, and soil. In its natural habitat, Hymenophyllum Australe plays an important role in the ecosystem by providing shelter and food for insects, birds, and other animals.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Hymenophyllum Australe a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, Hymenophyllum Australe is a relatively easy plant to care for, and it does not require frequent watering or fertilization. However, it requires specific conditions such as bright, but indirect sunlight and well-draining soil to thrive.
Q: Can Hymenophyllum Australe be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Hymenophyllum Australe is a popular choice for indoor decoration due to its delicate and unique appearance. It can be grown in small pots, terrariums, or hanging baskets and placed near a window that receives filtered light.
Q: How often should I water Hymenophyllum Australe?
A: Hymenophyllum Australe prefers moist soil, but it should not be constantly wet. Water the plant once or twice a week, depending on the humidity level and temperature. Avoid getting water on the fronds, as this can cause them to rot.
Q: What should I do if my Hymenophyllum Australe has yellowing fronds?
A: Yellowing fronds can be a sign of overwatering or poor drainage. Check the soil and make sure it is not constantly wet. Remove any affected fronds and adjust the watering schedule to prevent further damage.
Related Plants
- Hymenophyllum Tunbridgense
- Hymenophyllum Wilsonii
- Hymenophyllum Cupressiforme
- Hymenophyllum Flabellatum
References
- “Hymenophyllum Australe.” Australian National Botanic Gardens. Accessed 28 July 2021. https://www.anbg.gov.au/gnp/gnp9/hymenophyllum-australe.html
- “Hymenophyllum Australe.” New Zealand Native Plants. Accessed 28 July 2021. https://www.nznativeplants.co.nz/shop/ferns/hymenophyllum-australe/
- “Hymenophyllum Australe.” PlantNet. Accessed 28 July 2021. https://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Hymenophyllum~australe
