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Description
Mastersiella Digitata is a species of fern that belongs to the Polypodiaceae family. It is commonly known as Finger Fern or Hand Fern, due to its unique appearance resembling a hand with fingers. This plant is native to New Zealand and can be found growing in rocky areas, crevices, and cliff faces. Mastersiella Digitata is an evergreen fern that can grow up to two feet in length, making it a popular choice for indoor and outdoor gardens.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Polypodiaceae |
| Genus | Mastersiella |
| Species | Digitata |
Appearance
Mastersiella Digitata has a unique appearance that resembles a hand with fingers. Its fronds grow in a distinctive pattern, with each leaflet branching out from a central point to form a finger-like structure. The fronds are a bright green color and have a glossy texture. This fern is an evergreen plant, meaning it retains its green foliage throughout the year. The plant can grow up to two feet in length, making it a popular choice for indoor and outdoor gardens.
Care Guide
Mastersiella Digitata is a relatively easy plant to care for, making it a popular choice for beginner gardeners. Here are some tips for caring for this fern:- Water: Mastersiella Digitata prefers moist soil, so it is important to water it regularly. However, be careful not to overwater the plant, as this can lead to root rot. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again.- Fertilization: This fern does not require frequent fertilization. You can fertilize it once every three to four months with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.- Soil: Mastersiella Digitata prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. You can use a peat-based potting soil or mix your own with equal parts peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite.- Sunlight: This fern prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves.- Hardiness Zones: Mastersiella Digitata is hardy in zones 9-11, meaning it can tolerate temperatures down to 25°F.
Common Pests & Diseases
Mastersiella Digitata is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and scale insects. You can control these pests by spraying the plant with a mixture of water and neem oil. This fern can also be affected by fungal diseases, such as root rot and leaf spot. To prevent these diseases, avoid overwatering the plant and ensure that it has good air circulation.
Habitat
Mastersiella Digitata is native to New Zealand and can be found growing in rocky areas, crevices, and cliff faces. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and bright, indirect light. This fern is an evergreen plant, meaning it retains its green foliage throughout the year.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Mastersiella Digitata a good plant for indoor gardens?
A: Yes, Mastersiella Digitata is a popular choice for indoor gardens due to its unique appearance and easy care requirements.
Q: How often should I water Mastersiella Digitata?
A: This fern prefers moist soil, so it is important to water it regularly. However, be careful not to overwater the plant, as this can lead to root rot. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again.
Q: What kind of soil does Mastersiella Digitata prefer?
A: This fern prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. You can use a peat-based potting soil or mix your own with equal parts peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite.
Q: What are the hardiness zones for Mastersiella Digitata?
A: Mastersiella Digitata is hardy in zones 9-11, meaning it can tolerate temperatures down to 25°F.
Related Plants
– Asplenium nidus (Bird’s Nest Fern)- Adiantum raddianum (Maidenhair Fern)- Platycerium bifurcatum (Staghorn Fern)- Nephrolepis exaltata (Boston Fern)
References
– “Mastersiella Digitata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279235&isprofile=0.- “Mastersiella Digitata.” Plant Care Today, plantcaretoday.com/mastersiella-digitata.html.- “Mastersiella Digitata.” World of Ferns, worldofferns.net/mastersiella-digitata/.
