Lygodium Reticulatum

1. Description

Lygodium Reticulatum, also known as netted climbing fern, is a species of fern that belongs to the Lygodiaceae family. It is native to India, Southeast Asia, and Australia, and it is commonly found in moist tropical forests and along streams and rivers. This fern is a perennial plant that can grow up to 6 meters long and forms a network of delicate fronds that climb and twine around trees, shrubs, and other vegetation for support.

2. Taxonomic Information

3. Appearance

The fronds of Lygodium Reticulatum are bipinnate, which means that each frond is divided into smaller branches, and each branch is further subdivided into smaller leaflets. The leaflets are thin, delicate, and net-like, with a pale green color and a silky texture. They are arranged in an alternate pattern along the stem, and they can grow up to 20 centimeters long and 10 centimeters wide. The stem of this fern is wiry, flexible, and covered with small, brown scales. The roots are wiry and shallow, and they anchor the plant to the substrate.

4. Care Guide

Lygodium Reticulatum is a relatively low-maintenance plant that requires moderate care to thrive. Here are some guidelines for its care:

Water

This fern prefers moist soil and high humidity, so it should be watered regularly to keep the soil evenly moist. However, it should not be over-watered, as this can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.

Fertilization

Lygodium Reticulatum does not require frequent fertilization, but it can benefit from occasional feeding with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. The fertilizer should be applied according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and it should be diluted to half strength to avoid burning the roots.

Soil

This fern prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and compost can provide the ideal growing medium for Lygodium Reticulatum. It should be planted in a pot that has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.

Sunlight

Lygodium Reticulatum prefers partial to full shade, as direct sunlight can scorch its delicate fronds. It should be placed in a location that receives filtered light or indirect sunlight, such as under a canopy of trees or near a north-facing window.

Hardiness Zones

Lygodium Reticulatum is hardy in USDA zones 9-11, which means that it can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F (-6°C) for short periods of time. It should be protected from frost and freezing temperatures, as they can damage or kill the plant.

5. Common Pests & Diseases

Lygodium Reticulatum is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be affected by some common problems:

Pests

• Scale insects
• Mealybugs
• Spider mites

Diseases

• Root rot
• Leaf spot
• Fungal infections

To prevent these problems, it is recommended to keep the plant clean and well-ventilated, avoid over-watering, and remove any infected or damaged parts of the plant promptly.

6. Habitat

Lygodium Reticulatum is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia and Australia, where it grows in moist, shady habitats such as rainforests, riverbanks, and swamps. It is commonly found growing on the trunks and branches of trees, as well as on rocks and other substrates. This fern can also grow as an epiphyte, which means that it can grow on other plants without harming them.

7. Question and Answer

Here are some frequently asked questions about Lygodium Reticulatum:

Q: Is Lygodium Reticulatum a good houseplant?

A: Yes, Lygodium Reticulatum can make a beautiful and unique houseplant that can add a touch of tropical elegance to any room. However, it requires moderate care and should be placed in a location with filtered light and high humidity.

Q: Can Lygodium Reticulatum be grown from spores?

A: Yes, Lygodium Reticulatum can be propagated from spores, but it requires some patience and skill. The spores should be collected from mature fronds, sown on a moist, sterile growing medium, and kept in a warm, humid place until they germinate. The resulting seedlings should be transplanted to individual pots once they develop several leaves.

Q: How fast does Lygodium Reticulatum grow?

A: Lygodium Reticulatum is a relatively fast-growing fern that can produce several feet of new growth per year under ideal conditions. However, its growth rate may vary depending on factors such as temperature, humidity, light, and nutrients.

Q: Is Lygodium Reticulatum toxic to pets?

A: There is no evidence that Lygodium Reticulatum is toxic to pets such as cats and dogs. However, it is always best to keep any houseplants out of reach of curious pets to avoid accidental ingestion.

9. Related Plants

Here are some other ferns that are related to Lygodium Reticulatum:

• Lygodium japonicum
• Lygodium microphyllum
• Lygodium palmatum
• Lygodium scandens

10. References

• Flora of China. (2021). Lygodium Reticulatum. In Wu, Z. Y., Raven, P. H., & Hong, D. Y. (Eds.), Flora of China. Science Press (Beijing) & Missouri Botanical Garden Press (St. Louis).
• Florida State University. (n.d.). Lygodium Reticulatum. Retrieved from https://herbarium.bio.fsu.edu/choose/lygodium-reticulatum/
• The Royal Botanic Garden Sydney. (n.d.). Lygodium Reticulatum. Retrieved from https://www.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/Plants/Plant-types/Ferns-and-allies/Lygodium-reticulatum