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Description
Lygodium Articulatum, commonly known as Japanese climbing fern or articulating climbing fern, is a perennial fern that belongs to the family Schizaeaceae. It is native to Asia and Australia but has since spread to other parts of the world, including North America, where it is considered an invasive species. The plant grows in dense mats and can climb up to 90 feet high. It has a unique structure, with its fronds articulating at intervals, giving it a segmented appearance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Schizaeales |
| Family | Schizaeaceae |
| Genus | Lygodium |
Appearance
Lygodium Articulatum has slender, wiry stems that can grow up to 90 feet long. The fronds are finely divided and have a delicate, feathery appearance. They are light green in color and can grow up to 1.5 feet long. The plant has a unique structure, with its fronds articulating at intervals, giving it a segmented appearance. This feature allows it to climb and wrap itself around other plants, trees, and structures. Its spores are borne in clusters on the underside of the fronds and are covered by a protective membrane.
Care Guide
Lygodium Articulatum is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips to help you keep your plant healthy:- Water: The plant prefers moist soil, so water it regularly to keep the soil consistently damp but not waterlogged.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the delicate fronds.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lygodium Articulatum is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including:- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause discoloration and damage to the fronds. Treat them with a miticide.- Scale insects: These pests can cause yellowing and stunted growth. Treat them with an insecticidal soap.- Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering or poorly drained soil. It can cause the plant to wilt and die. To prevent it, make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Lygodium Articulatum is native to Asia and Australia but has since spread to other parts of the world, including North America, where it is considered an invasive species. It grows in a variety of habitats, including wetlands, forests, and disturbed areas. It can climb up trees and other structures, forming dense mats that can eventually shade out other plants.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lygodium Articulatum an invasive species?
A: Yes, it is considered an invasive species in North America.
Q: Can Lygodium Articulatum be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it can be grown indoors in a bright, humid location.
Q: How often should I water my Lygodium Articulatum?
A: Water the plant regularly to keep the soil consistently damp but not waterlogged.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Lygodium Articulatum?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-11.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Lygodium Articulatum:- Lygodium Japonicum- Lygodium Microphyllum- Lygodium Palmatum- Lygodium Scandens
References
– “Lygodium Articulatum.” USDA Plants Database.- “Articulating Climbing Fern.” UF/IFAS Center for Aquatic and Invasive Plants.- “Lygodium Articulatum.” Missouri Botanical Garden.
