Contents
Description
Myriopteris Covillei, also known as Coville’s Lipfern, is a small fern that belongs to the Pteridaceae family. It is native to the southwestern United States and can be found in rocky areas, canyons, and cliffs. This fern has a unique appearance that makes it stand out, with its fronds growing in a rosette-like pattern.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Pteridopsida |
| Order | Pteridales |
| Family | Pteridaceae |
| Genus | Myriopteris |
Appearance
The fronds of Myriopteris Covillei are light green in color and grow in a rosette-like pattern, with each frond reaching up to 15cm in length. The leaves are narrow and have a slightly triangular shape with pointed tips. The ferns produce spores that are located on the undersides of the fronds in small clusters.
Care Guide
Myriopteris Covillei is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to take care of this fern:
- Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant whenever the top inch of soil feels dry.
- Fertilization: Fertilize with a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer).
- Soil: Plant in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: This fern prefers partial shade to full shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Myriopteris Covillei is hardy in zones 6 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Myriopteris Covillei is generally a pest-free plant, but it can be affected by spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. To prevent these pests, keep the plant clean and well-ventilated. If you notice any pests, remove them by hand or use insecticidal soap. This fern is also susceptible to root rot, which can be caused by overwatering or poorly-draining soil.
Habitat
Myriopteris Covillei is native to the southwestern United States, including Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. It can be found in rocky areas, canyons, and cliffs, growing in crevices and on ledges. This fern prefers to grow in well-drained soil and partial to full shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Myriopteris Covillei be grown indoors?
A: Yes, this fern can be grown indoors as long as it is placed in a shady location and the soil is kept moist.
Q: How often should I fertilize Myriopteris Covillei?
A: Fertilize with a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer).
Q: Can Myriopteris Covillei tolerate drought?
A: No, this fern prefers to grow in moist soil and does not tolerate drought well.
Q: How can I propagate Myriopteris Covillei?
A: This fern can be propagated by spores or by dividing the plant.
Related Plants
- Myriopteris lindheimeri
- Myriopteris wootonii
- Myriopteris yavapensis
References
- “Myriopteris covillei (Baker) Grusz & Windham.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science. Accessed 10 June 2021. www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:77167905-1.
- Martin, Kristen. “Myriopteris Covillei.” Gardening Know How. Accessed 10 June 2021. www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/foliage/myriopteris-covillei/myriopteris-covillei.htm.
- “Myriopteris Covillei.” Arizona State University, School of Life Sciences. Accessed 10 June 2021. https://sols.asu.edu/plants/myriopteris-covillei.
