Contents
Description
Lemmaphyllum is an epiphytic fern genus that belongs to the Polypodiaceae family. It is native to Southeast Asia, Oceania, and the Pacific Islands. This small fern genus has about 12 species, and they are commonly grown as ornamental plants. They have small leaves that grow in a dense rosette pattern, and each leaf has a prominent midrib. The leaves are usually dark green and leathery, and they can grow up to 30cm long.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Polypodiaceae |
| Genus | Lemmaphyllum |
Appearance
Lemmaphyllum has small, leathery leaves that grow in a dense rosette pattern. The leaves are usually dark green and have a prominent midrib. They can grow up to 30cm long, and their width ranges from 1-5cm. The leaves are pinnate and have a finely toothed margin. Lemmaphyllum has a shallow root system, and it is an epiphytic plant that grows on tree trunks or other plants. It does not have a stem, and the leaves emerge directly from the rhizome.
Care Guide
Lemmaphyllum is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Lemmaphyllum prefers moist soil but can tolerate periods of drought. Water the plant thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
- Soil: Lemmaphyllum prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Use a potting mix that is specifically formulated for ferns.
- Sunlight: Lemmaphyllum prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves.
- Hardiness Zones: Lemmaphyllum is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lemmaphyllum is relatively pest and disease-free, but 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, so make sure to allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Habitat
Lemmaphyllum is native to Southeast Asia, Oceania, and the Pacific Islands. It is an epiphytic plant that grows on tree trunks or other plants. It prefers a warm, humid climate and can be found in tropical rainforests and other moist habitats.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lemmaphyllum a good indoor plant?
A: Yes, Lemmaphyllum is a great indoor plant that is easy to care for and adds a touch of green to any room.
Q: How often should I water Lemmaphyllum?
A: Water the plant thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry. The frequency of watering will depend on the temperature, humidity, and light levels in your home.
Q: Can Lemmaphyllum tolerate low light?
A: Lemmaphyllum prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate low light conditions. However, it may not grow as well in low light.
Q: How big does Lemmaphyllum grow?
A: Lemmaphyllum has small, leathery leaves that can grow up to 30cm long. The plant does not have a stem, and the leaves emerge directly from the rhizome.
Related Plants
- Vittaria
- Phymatosorus
- Polypodioides
- Phlebodium
References
- Flora of China. (2021). Lemmaphyllum. Flora of China. http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=2&taxon_id=117301
- Govaerts, R., et al. (2019). World Checklist of Ferns. Facilitated by the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. http://wcsp.science.kew.org/namedetail.do?name_id=540954
- The Plant List. (2013). Lemmaphyllum. The Plant List. http://www.theplantlist.org/1.1/browse/P/Polypodiaceae/Lemmaphyllum/
