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Description
Notholaena Lemmonii, commonly known as Lemmon’s cloak fern, is a small, evergreen fern native to Arizona and New Mexico. It is a member of the Cheilanthoid fern alliance and is known for its unique fronds that resemble a cloak or cape. The fronds are thin and wiry, growing up to 50 cm long and 5 cm wide, and are covered with small, brownish-black scales that give them a distinctive appearance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Pteridales |
| Family | Pteridaceae |
| Genus | Notholaena |
Appearance
The fronds of Notholaena Lemmonii are thin and wiry, growing up to 50 cm long and 5 cm wide, and are covered with small, brownish-black scales that give them a distinctive appearance. The fronds emerge from a central rosette and are arranged in a circular pattern. The undersides of the fronds are covered in sporangia, which contain the fern’s spores. Notholaena Lemmonii is an evergreen fern, retaining its fronds year-round.
Care Guide
Notholaena Lemmonii is a relatively easy plant to care for. It prefers well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun, though it can tolerate some drought. Here are some tips for caring for your Notholaena Lemmonii:
- Water: Water your Notholaena Lemmonii regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your Notholaena Lemmonii once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Notholaena Lemmonii prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Notholaena Lemmonii prefers partial shade to full sun, but can tolerate some drought.
- Hardiness Zones: Notholaena Lemmonii is hardy in zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Notholaena Lemmonii is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to mealybugs and scale insects. If you notice any pests on your plant, treat it with a neem oil spray. Over-watering can also lead to root rot, so make sure to only water your plant when the soil is dry.
Habitat
Notholaena Lemmonii is native to Arizona and New Mexico, where it grows in rocky and sandy soils in desert and semi-desert habitats. It can also be found growing in canyons and on rocky slopes.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the ideal soil pH for Notholaena Lemmonii?
A: Notholaena Lemmonii prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.5-6.5.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Notholaena Lemmonii?
A: Fertilize your Notholaena Lemmonii once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Notholaena Lemmonii tolerate drought?
A: Yes, Notholaena Lemmonii can tolerate some drought, but it prefers to be kept moist.
Q: Where can I buy Notholaena Lemmonii?
A: Notholaena Lemmonii can be purchased at many nurseries and online plant retailers.
Related Plants
- Notholaena californica
- Notholaena grayi
- Notholaena sinuata
References
- “Notholaena Lemmonii.” Flora of North America.
- “Notholaena Lemmonii.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
- “Notholaena Lemmonii.” Arizona Native Plant Society.
