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Description
Myriopteris Microphylla, commonly known as the Desert Lace Fern, is a perennial fern that belongs to the family Pteridaceae. It is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, where it grows in rocky, dry habitats such as canyons, cliffs, and washes.This fern features delicate and feathery foliage that is typically light green in color. Its fronds are pinnately compound, meaning they have multiple small leaflets arranged along a central axis. The leaflets are oblong in shape and measure about 1-2 cm in length. The fronds can grow up to 30 cm in length, and the plant can reach a height of 60 cm.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Pteridales |
| Family | Pteridaceae |
| Genus | Myriopteris |
| Species | Microphylla |
Appearance
Myriopteris Microphylla has delicate and feathery foliage that is typically light green in color. Its fronds are pinnately compound, meaning they have multiple small leaflets arranged along a central axis. The leaflets are oblong in shape and measure about 1-2 cm in length. The fronds can grow up to 30 cm in length, and the plant can reach a height of 60 cm.
Care Guide
To care for Myriopteris Microphylla, you should provide it with well-draining soil, moderate sunlight, and regular watering. Here are some tips:- Water: Water your fern regularly, but be careful not to overwater it. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged.- Fertilization: Fertilize your fern every few months with a balanced fertilizer that is designed for ferns.- Soil: Plant your fern in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Avoid soils that are heavy and compacted.- Sunlight: Myriopteris Microphylla prefers moderate sunlight, so place it in a location that receives partial shade or filtered sunlight.- Hardiness Zones: This fern is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Myriopteris Microphylla is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. To prevent these pests, keep your fern in a location with good air circulation and avoid overwatering. If you notice any signs of infestation, treat your fern with a gentle insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Myriopteris Microphylla is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, where it grows in rocky, dry habitats such as canyons, cliffs, and washes. It can also be found in disturbed areas such as roadsides and abandoned fields.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Myriopteris Microphylla a good indoor plant?
A: Yes, Myriopteris Microphylla can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with moderate sunlight and regular watering.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Myriopteris Microphylla?
A: You should fertilize your fern every few months with a balanced fertilizer that is designed for ferns.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Myriopteris Microphylla?
A: Myriopteris Microphylla is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Q: How do I propagate Myriopteris Microphylla?
A: Myriopteris Microphylla can be propagated by dividing its rhizomes in the spring.
Related Plants
– Myriopteris Lindheimeri- Myriopteris Wrightii- Myriopteris Oaxacensis
References
– “Myriopteris Microphylla.” Flora of North America.- “Myriopteris Microphylla.” The Plant List.- “Myriopteris Microphylla.” USDA Plants Database.
