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Description
Lygodium Japonicum, commonly known as Japanese climbing fern, is a perennial vine that belongs to the family Lygodiaceae. This fern is native to East Asia and is known for its ability to climb and twine around other plants. The Japanese climbing fern is an invasive species that can grow up to 100 feet long and is considered a threat to native plant species in North America.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Pteridopsida |
| Order | Schizaeales |
| Family | Lygodiaceae |
| Genus | Lygodium |
Appearance
The Japanese climbing fern has long, slender fronds that can grow up to 3 feet long. The fronds are bipinnate, with small leaflets arranged in a symmetrical pattern along both sides of the stem. The fronds are a light green color and have a delicate, lacy appearance. The plant reproduces through spores that are located on the underside of the fronds.
Care Guide
Lygodium Japonicum is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It can grow in a variety of soil types and is tolerant of both sun and shade. However, it prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial shade. Here are some care tips for Japanese climbing fern:- Water: Water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.- Fertilization: Japanese climbing fern does not require regular fertilization, but you can apply a balanced fertilizer once or twice a year to encourage growth.- Soil: The plant can grow in a variety of soil types, but it prefers moist, well-draining soil.- Sunlight: The plant can tolerate both sun and shade, but it prefers partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Japanese climbing fern is hardy in USDA zones 6-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Japanese climbing fern is relatively disease-resistant, but it can be susceptible to 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 water the plant only when the soil is dry.
Habitat
Lygodium Japonicum is native to East Asia and can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, wetlands, and disturbed areas. In North America, the plant is considered an invasive species and can be found in the southeastern United States.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Japanese climbing fern an invasive species?
A: Yes, Japanese climbing fern is considered an invasive species in North America.
Q: What is the preferred growing condition for Japanese climbing fern?
A: Japanese climbing fern prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial shade.
Q: How does Japanese climbing fern reproduce?
A: The plant reproduces through spores that are located on the underside of the fronds.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Japanese climbing fern?
A: Japanese climbing fern is hardy in USDA zones 6-10.
Related Plants
– Lygodium Microphyllum- Lygodium Palmatum- Lygodium Scandens
References
– “Lygodium Japonicum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c794.- “Japanese Climbing Fern.” USDA Forest Service, www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/fern/lygjap/all.html.- “Lygodium Japonicum.” Plantwise, www.plantwise.org/KnowledgeBank/Datasheet.aspx?dsid=20775.
