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Description
Microlepia Trichocarpa, commonly known as the Hairy Fern, is a species of fern that belongs to the Polypodiaceae family. It is native to Southeast Asia, including countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Thailand. The fern is a perennial plant that can grow up to 60 cm in height and 40 cm in width. It has a rhizome that is covered with brown scales and produces fronds that are pinnate and bipinnate.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Polypodiaceae |
| Genus | Microlepia |
Appearance
The Hairy Fern has fronds that are green and glossy with a hairy texture. The fronds are pinnate and bipinnate, and they can grow up to 60 cm in length and 40 cm in width. The fern has a rhizome that is covered with brown scales, and it produces new fronds from the center of the plant. The Hairy Fern is a fast-growing plant that can quickly fill out a pot or garden bed.
Care Guide
The Hairy Fern is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips on how to take care of it:Water: Water the plant when the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch. Do not overwater the fern, as this can lead to root rot.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Soil: The Hairy Fern prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: The fern prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, as this can scorch the fronds.Hardiness Zones: The Hairy Fern is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Hairy Fern is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can occasionally be affected by mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. To prevent these pests, keep the plant clean and well-ventilated. If the fern does get infested, remove the affected fronds and treat the plant with an insecticidal soap.
Habitat
The Hairy Fern is native to Southeast Asia, where it grows in moist tropical forests. It can be found growing on rocks, logs, and in soil, and it is often used as a decorative plant in gardens and homes.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the ideal temperature range for the Hairy Fern?A: The Hairy Fern prefers temperatures between 18-25°C.Q: How often should I fertilize the Hairy Fern?A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Q: Can the Hairy Fern be grown indoors?A: Yes, the Hairy Fern can be grown indoors as long as it is placed in bright, indirect light.Q: How often should I water the Hairy Fern?A: Water the plant when the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to the Hairy Fern:- Microlepia platyphylla- Microlepia strigosa- Microlepia speluncae- Polypodium vulgare
References
– Flora of China: Microlepia trichocarpa. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=2&taxon_id=200004605- Hairy Fern (Microlepia trichocarpa). (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.houseplantsexpert.com/hairy-fern.html- Microlepia trichocarpa. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.gbif.org/species/2679381- Microlepia trichocarpa. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.rareflora.com/microlepia.html
