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Description
Lastreopsis Vieillardii is a species of fern that belongs to the family of Dryopteridaceae. It is native to New Caledonia, a French island located in the South Pacific Ocean. This fern can grow up to 60 cm tall and 60 cm wide, making it a perfect choice for indoor and outdoor gardens. It has a unique feature of producing fertile fronds that are taller than the sterile ones, making it easy to distinguish between the two.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Dryopteridaceae |
| Genus | Lastreopsis |
Appearance
Lastreopsis Vieillardii has dark green leaves that are leathery and slightly glossy. The leaves are divided into pinnate-shaped segments that are slightly curved and pointed. The fertile fronds are taller than the sterile ones and produce spores on their undersides. This fern can grow up to 60 cm tall and 60 cm wide, making it perfect for indoor and outdoor gardens.
Care Guide
Lastreopsis Vieillardii is a low maintenance fern that requires minimal care. Here are some care tips to keep this fern healthy:
- Water: Water the fern when the top inch of soil is dry. Do not overwater as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the fern once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant the fern in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Place the fern in bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight as this can burn the leaves.
- Hardiness Zones: Lastreopsis Vieillardii is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lastreopsis Vieillardii is generally free from pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be prevented by allowing the soil to dry out between watering.
Habitat
Lastreopsis Vieillardii is native to New Caledonia, a French island located in the South Pacific Ocean. It can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and rocky areas. It prefers shady areas with well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Lastreopsis Vieillardii grow in full sunlight?
A: No, Lastreopsis Vieillardii prefers bright, indirect sunlight and can be burned by direct sunlight.
Q: How often should I fertilize Lastreopsis Vieillardii?
A: Fertilize the fern once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Lastreopsis Vieillardii?
A: Lastreopsis Vieillardii is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Q: How often should I water Lastreopsis Vieillardii?
A: Water the fern when the top inch of soil is dry. Do not overwater as this can lead to root rot.
Related Plants
- Lastreopsis microsora
- Lastreopsis glabella
- Lastreopsis hispida
- Lastreopsis marginata
References
- Flora of New Caledonia: Lastreopsis Vieillardii (http://endemia.nc/plante/fiche/4412)
- Gardening Know How: Lastreopsis Fern Care – Tips For Growing Lastreopsis Ferns (https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/foliage/lastreopsis/lastreopsis-fern-care.htm)
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Lastreopsis Vieillardii (https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=e851)
