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Description
Lomaria Discolor, also known as the White Backed Fern, is a species of fern that belongs to the family Lomariopsidaceae. It is native to New Zealand, where it grows in damp forests and along streams. The fern has fronds that can grow up to 2 meters long and 30 centimeters wide. Its fronds are pinnate and have a distinct white stripe down the center of the leaf blade. The undersides of the fronds are covered in white scales that give the plant its common name. Lomaria Discolor is an evergreen plant that can be grown both indoors and outdoors.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Lomariopsidaceae |
| Genus | Lomaria |
Appearance
The fronds of Lomaria Discolor are pinnate and can grow up to 2 meters long and 30 centimeters wide. The leaf blade has a distinct white stripe down the center, and the undersides of the fronds are covered in white scales. The plant is evergreen and has a spreading habit. It can be grown both indoors and outdoors, and is often used as a houseplant. The fronds of Lomaria Discolor are delicate and have a lacy appearance that adds a touch of elegance to any room or garden.
Care Guide
Lomaria Discolor is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this fern:
- Water: Lomaria Discolor prefers moist soil, but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: Fertilize Lomaria Discolor once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Lomaria Discolor prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Lomaria Discolor prefers partial shade to full shade. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the fronds.
- Hardiness Zones: Lomaria Discolor is hardy in zones 8-11, but can also be grown as a houseplant in colder climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lomaria Discolor is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to mealybugs and scale insects. Mealybugs can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil, while scale insects can be treated with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap. The plant can also be affected by fungal diseases, such as leaf spot and root rot. To prevent these diseases, make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Lomaria Discolor is native to New Zealand, where it grows in damp forests and along streams. The plant prefers moist soil and partial to full shade. It is an understory plant that can tolerate low light conditions. Lomaria Discolor is often used as a houseplant or grown in shaded gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lomaria Discolor a good houseplant?
A: Yes, Lomaria Discolor is a good houseplant. It prefers partial to full shade and moist soil, making it perfect for indoor environments.
Q: How often should I water my Lomaria Discolor?
A: Water your Lomaria Discolor when the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Q: Can Lomaria Discolor tolerate low light conditions?
A: Yes, Lomaria Discolor is an understory plant that can tolerate low light conditions. It prefers partial to full shade.
Q: How do I propagate Lomaria Discolor?
A: Lomaria Discolor can be propagated by dividing the plant in the spring. Carefully separate the rhizomes and repot each division in a well-draining soil mix.
Related Plants
- Lomaria Spicant
- Lomaria Alpina
- Lomaria Patersonii
- Lomaria Procera
References
- “Lomaria Discolor.” New Zealand Plant Conservation Network. https://www.nzpcn.org.nz/flora/species/lomaria-discolor/
- “Lomaria Discolor.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/10813/lomaria-discolor/details
- “Lomaria Discolor.” Pacific Island Ecosystems at Risk. https://www.hear.org/pier/species/lomaria_discolor.htm
