Contents
Description
Microlepia Nepalensis, also known as the Nepal microlepia, is a fern species that belongs to the family Polypodiaceae. This species is native to the Himalayas and is commonly found in Nepal, Bhutan, India, and China. The fern has a unique appearance with fronds that grow up to 60cm in length and 10cm in width. The fronds are pinnate, which means they have leaflets arranged on either side of the stalk, and they have a dark green color.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Polypodiaceae |
| Genus | Microlepia |
Appearance
The Microlepia Nepalensis fern has large fronds that can grow up to 60cm in length and 10cm in width. The fronds are pinnate with leaflets arranged on either side of the stalk. The leaflets are lance-shaped and have a dark green color. The fronds grow from a rhizome, which is a horizontal stem that grows underground. The rhizome is covered with reddish-brown scales that protect it from drying out.
Care Guide
Water: The Microlepia Nepalensis fern prefers moist soil, so it is important to keep the soil evenly moist. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely, but also make sure it is not waterlogged.
Fertilization: Fertilize the fern every 2-3 months with a balanced liquid fertilizer that is diluted to half its strength.
Soil: The fern prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite is ideal for this fern.
Sunlight: The Microlepia Nepalensis fern prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the fronds.
Hardiness Zones: The fern is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Microlepia Nepalensis fern is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled by spraying the fern with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The fern can also be affected by fungal diseases such as root rot and leaf spot. These diseases can be prevented by avoiding overwatering and providing good air circulation.
Habitat
The Microlepia Nepalensis fern is native to the Himalayas and is commonly found in Nepal, Bhutan, India, and China. It grows in moist, shady areas such as forests, riverbanks, and rocky outcrops.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Microlepia Nepalensis fern easy to care for?
A: Yes, the fern is relatively easy to care for as long as it is provided with the right growing conditions.
Q: Can the fern be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the fern can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with bright, indirect sunlight and moist soil.
Q: How often should the fern be watered?
A: The fern should be watered whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Q: Can the fern be propagated?
A: Yes, the fern can be propagated by dividing the rhizome and planting the divisions in separate pots.
Related Plants
- Microlepia speluncae
- Microlepia strigosa
- Microlepia tenuifolia
References
- “Microlepia Nepalensis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 23 August 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=q860>
- “Microlepia Nepalensis.” PlantVine. Accessed 23 August 2021. <https://www.plantvine.com/products/microlepia-nepalensis>
- “Microlepia Nepalensis.” World Ferns. Accessed 23 August 2021. <https://www.worldferns.com/ferns/microlepia-nepalensis>
