Contents
Description
Hymenophyllum Pallidum is a fern species that belongs to the Hymenophyllaceae family. It is native to New Zealand, where it can be found in the moist, shady areas of forests, on rocks, and on tree trunks. The fronds of this fern are delicate, and they are characterized by their translucent appearance, which makes them appear almost ghost-like.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Hymenophyllales |
| Family | Hymenophyllaceae |
| Genus | Hymenophyllum |
Appearance
The fronds of Hymenophyllum Pallidum are delicate and translucent, giving them a ghostly appearance. They are generally small, measuring between 10 and 25 centimeters in length. The fronds are triangular in shape, and they have a pinnate structure, with the individual leaflets arranged in pairs along the central stem. The leaflets are narrow and elongated, measuring between 3 and 8 millimeters in length, and they are slightly curved.
Care Guide
Water
Hymenophyllum Pallidum requires consistent moisture to thrive. It should be watered regularly, but care should be taken not to overwater the plant, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
This fern does not require regular fertilization, but it can benefit from the occasional application of a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
Soil
Hymenophyllum Pallidum prefers a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can be grown in a mixture of peat moss, perlite, and sand.
Sunlight
This fern prefers a shady environment and should be kept out of direct sunlight. It can be grown indoors near a north-facing window or outdoors in a shaded area.
Hardiness Zones
Hymenophyllum Pallidum is hardy in USDA Zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hymenophyllum Pallidum is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be affected by mealybugs and scale insects. Infestations can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Hymenophyllum Pallidum is native to New Zealand, where it can be found in the moist, shady areas of forests, on rocks, and on tree trunks. It prefers a humid environment and can be grown in a terrarium or greenhouse.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the ideal growing temperature for Hymenophyllum Pallidum?
A: Hymenophyllum Pallidum prefers temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
Q: Can Hymenophyllum Pallidum be grown outdoors?
A: Yes, Hymenophyllum Pallidum can be grown outdoors in a shaded area that provides consistent moisture.
Q: How often should Hymenophyllum Pallidum be fertilized?
A: Hymenophyllum Pallidum does not require regular fertilization, but it can benefit from the occasional application of a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
Q: How often should Hymenophyllum Pallidum be watered?
A: Hymenophyllum Pallidum should be watered regularly, but care should be taken not to overwater the plant, as this can lead to root rot.
Related Plants
- Hymenophyllum dilatatum
- Hymenophyllum pulcherrimum
- Hymenophyllum sanguinolentum
- Hymenophyllum tunbrigense
References
- “Hymenophyllum Pallidum.” New Zealand Plant Conservation Network. Accessed 1 May 2021. https://www.nzpcn.org.nz/flora/species/hymenophyllum-pallidum/
- “Hymenophyllum Pallidum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 1 May 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=h680
- “Hymenophyllum Pallidum.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 1 May 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/19370/Hymenophyllum-pallidum/Details
