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Description
Hymenophyllum Sanguinolentum, also known as the bleeding filmy fern, is a small fern that belongs to the Hymenophyllaceae family. This fern is native to New Zealand, where it can be found growing in damp, shaded areas such as forests, stream banks, and waterfalls. The name “bleeding filmy fern” comes from the red sap that can be seen when the plant is cut or damaged. This fern is popular among fern enthusiasts because of its unique appearance and interesting name.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Hymenophyllales |
| Family | Hymenophyllaceae |
| Genus | Hymenophyllum |
Appearance
Hymenophyllum Sanguinolentum is a small fern that typically grows to a height of 10-15 cm. It has delicate, lacy fronds that are bright green in color and can be up to 20 cm long. The fronds are held on thin, wiry stems that are brown in color.The most notable feature of this fern is the red sap that can be seen when the plant is cut or damaged. This sap is produced by the plant’s oil glands and is often used in traditional Maori medicine.
Care Guide
To care for Hymenophyllum Sanguinolentum, it is important to provide it with the right growing conditions. Here are some tips for caring for this fern:- Water: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Hymenophyllum Sanguinolentum prefers high humidity, so misting the plant regularly can be beneficial.- Fertilization: This fern does not require frequent fertilization, but you can use a balanced liquid fertilizer once a month during the growing season.- Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: This fern prefers low to medium light conditions and should be kept out of direct sunlight.- Hardiness Zones: Hymenophyllum Sanguinolentum is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
While Hymenophyllum Sanguinolentum is generally a hardy plant, it can be susceptible to some pests and diseases. Here are some common issues to watch out for:- Pest: Spider mites can be a problem for this fern, especially if the humidity is too low.- Disease: Root rot can occur if the soil is kept too wet or if there is poor drainage.
Habitat
Hymenophyllum Sanguinolentum is native to New Zealand and can be found growing in damp, shaded areas such as forests, stream banks, and waterfalls. It prefers to grow on rocks or other surfaces that are constantly damp.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Hymenophyllum Sanguinolentum a good plant for beginners?
A: While this fern is not necessarily difficult to care for, it may be best suited for more experienced fern growers who can provide the ideal growing conditions.
Q: Can Hymenophyllum Sanguinolentum be grown in a terrarium?
A: Yes, this fern can be grown in a terrarium as long as the conditions are right. It prefers high humidity and low to medium light conditions.
Q: How often should I fertilize Hymenophyllum Sanguinolentum?
A: This fern does not require frequent fertilization, but you can use a balanced liquid fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Q: Does Hymenophyllum Sanguinolentum need to be pruned?
A: This fern does not require pruning, but you can remove any dead or yellowing fronds to maintain its appearance.
Related Plants
– Hymenophyllum dilatatum- Hymenophyllum pulcherrimum- Hymenophyllum tunbrigense
References
– “Hymenophyllum Sanguinolentum.” New Zealand Plant Conservation Network. http://www.nzpcn.org.nz/flora_details.aspx?ID=1692- “Bleeding Filmy Fern.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/47729/hymenophyllum-sanguinolentum/details
