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Description
Hymenophyllum Rarum, also known as the scarce filmy fern, is a small and delicate fern species that belongs to the Hymenophyllaceae family. It is native to New Zealand, where it usually grows in shaded and damp areas such as forests, cliffs, and rocky crevices. Its fronds are thin, transparent, and almost translucent, giving them a filmy appearance, and can grow up to 30cm long.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Hymenophyllales |
| Family | Hymenophyllaceae |
| Genus | Hymenophyllum |
Appearance
The Hymenophyllum Rarum has thin and delicate fronds that are almost transparent, giving them a filmy appearance. The fronds are usually divided into two or three pinnate segments and can grow up to 30cm long. The fronds are green in color and have a slightly rough surface. The stalks are slender and wiry, and the rhizomes are creeping and slender. When the fern is mature, it produces sporangia (spore-bearing structures) on the undersides of the fronds.
Care Guide
Water
The Hymenophyllum Rarum needs to be kept moist, but not waterlogged. It is best to water it when the soil feels slightly dry to the touch. The fern should be watered from the bottom, so the roots can soak up the water.
Fertilization
The Hymenophyllum Rarum does not require frequent fertilization. However, it can benefit from occasional feeding with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season.
Soil
The Hymenophyllum Rarum prefers well-draining and slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter. It is best to use a soil mix that contains peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite.
Sunlight
The Hymenophyllum Rarum prefers shaded areas with indirect sunlight. It should be protected from direct sunlight, as it can scorch the delicate fronds.
Hardiness Zones
The Hymenophyllum Rarum is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Hymenophyllum Rarum is relatively pest-free, but it can be susceptible to spider mites and mealybugs. To prevent these pests, it is recommended to keep the fern clean and well-hydrated. If pest infestations occur, they can be treated with neem oil or insecticidal soap. The fern is also susceptible to fungal diseases such as root rot, which can be prevented by avoiding overwatering and keeping the soil well-draining.
Habitat
The Hymenophyllum Rarum is native to New Zealand, where it usually grows in shaded and damp areas such as forests, cliffs, and rocky crevices. It can also be found in other parts of the world, such as Australia, where it grows in similar habitats.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Hymenophyllum Rarum be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Hymenophyllum Rarum can be grown indoors as long as it is kept in a shaded area with indirect sunlight and is provided with adequate moisture and humidity.
Q: How often should Hymenophyllum Rarum be fertilized?
A: Hymenophyllum Rarum does not require frequent fertilization. It can benefit from occasional feeding with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season.
Q: What is the ideal temperature range for Hymenophyllum Rarum?
A: Hymenophyllum Rarum prefers temperatures between 15 and 25°C (59 and 77°F).
Q: How often should Hymenophyllum Rarum be watered?
A: Hymenophyllum Rarum should be watered when the soil feels slightly dry to the touch. It is best to water it from the bottom, so the roots can soak up the water.
Related Plants
- Hymenophyllum Cupreum
- Hymenophyllum Oxyphyllum
- Hymenophyllum Tunbrigense
- Hymenophyllum Wilsonii
References
- “Hymenophyllum rarum.” Flora of New Zealand.
- “Hymenophyllum Rarum.” PlantNet.
- “Hymenophyllum Rarum.” Royal Horticultural Society.
- “Hymenophyllum Rarum.” Tropicos.
