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Description:
Lastreopsis Hispida, commonly known as the Shaggy Shield Fern, is a species of fern that belongs to the Dryopteridaceae family. It is native to tropical regions such as Southeast Asia, New Guinea, and Australia. This fern is characterized by its fronds, which are triangular in shape and have a shaggy appearance due to the presence of small hairs on the undersides of the leaves. The fronds can grow up to 60 cm in length and 30 cm in width, with a dark green color that turns bronze as the leaves mature. The Shaggy Shield Fern is a perennial plant that thrives in warm and humid environments.
Taxonomic Information:
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Dryopteridaceae |
| Genus | Lastreopsis |
| Species | Lastreopsis hispida |
Appearance:
The Shaggy Shield Fern is a unique fern species that has a shaggy appearance due to the presence of small hairs on the undersides of the fronds. The fronds are triangular in shape and can grow up to 60 cm in length and 30 cm in width. They have a dark green color that turns bronze as the leaves mature. The fronds are also pinnate, with numerous small leaflets that are arranged on either side of the rachis. The Shaggy Shield Fern is a perennial plant that is ideal for adding texture and interest to any tropical garden.
Care Guide:
To care for a Shaggy Shield Fern, it is important to provide it with the right conditions. This fern thrives in warm and humid environments, so it is best to keep it in a location with indirect sunlight and high humidity levels. It should also be watered regularly to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Fertilizer can be applied every two weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth. The Shaggy Shield Fern prefers soil that is rich in organic matter and well-draining. It is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases:
The Shaggy Shield Fern is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by a few common issues. One of the most common pests that can affect this fern is mealybugs, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap. Another common pest is scale insects, which can be controlled with horticultural oil. As for diseases, the Shaggy Shield Fern can be affected by fungal infections such as leaf spot and root rot, which can be prevented by ensuring proper drainage and avoiding overwatering.
Habitat:
The Shaggy Shield Fern is native to tropical regions such as Southeast Asia, New Guinea, and Australia. It thrives in warm and humid environments and can be found growing in rainforests, near streams or waterfalls, and in other areas with high levels of moisture. This fern is an epiphyte, which means that it can grow on other plants, such as trees or rocks, without being parasitic.
Question and Answer:
Q: What is the ideal temperature for a Shaggy Shield Fern?
A: The Shaggy Shield Fern prefers temperatures between 18-24°C.
Q: Can the Shaggy Shield Fern be grown indoors?
A: Yes, this fern can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with high humidity levels and indirect sunlight.
Q: How often should a Shaggy Shield Fern be fertilized?
A: Fertilizer can be applied every two weeks during the growing season.
Q: Can the Shaggy Shield Fern be propagated?
A: Yes, this fern can be propagated by spores or by division.
Related Plants:
- Lastreopsis microsora
- Lastreopsis calantha
- Lastreopsis glabella
- Lastreopsis amplissima
References:
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/lastreopsis-hispida-shaggy-shield-fern
- https://www.fernsoftheworld.com/2014/03/27/lastreopsis-hispida/
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/foliage/shaggy-shield-fern/shaggy-shield-fern-care.htm
- https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-grow-shaggy-shield-fern-1902363
