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Description
Onoclea Sensibilis, commonly known as the sensitive fern, is a beautiful deciduous fern that belongs to the Onocleaceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in moist areas such as swamps, wetlands, and along stream banks. The plant derives its name from its sensitivity to frost and can die back completely in winter.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Onocleaceae |
| Genus | Onoclea |
Appearance
The Onoclea Sensibilis fern can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. It has a unique appearance with its large, triangular, light-green fronds that are deeply lobed and spread out horizontally. The fronds are arranged in a vase-like shape, and the plant has a clustered growth habit. The sensitive fern produces spores on specialized fronds that are brown and papery in texture.
Care Guide
Water: Onoclea Sensibilis prefers moist soil and requires regular watering to thrive. Make sure the soil is consistently moist but not waterlogged.Fertilization: The sensitive fern does not require regular fertilization. However, you can apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring to help the plant grow.Soil: The plant prefers acidic, well-drained soil. Mix organic matter into the soil to improve its quality.Sunlight: Onoclea Sensibilis prefers partial to full shade, making it an ideal plant for areas with little sunlight.Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Onoclea Sensibilis is relatively pest-free. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as rust and leaf spot. Watch out for signs of discoloration or spots on the leaves, and remove any affected leaves immediately to prevent the spread of disease.
Habitat
Onoclea Sensibilis grows in moist areas such as swamps, wetlands, and along stream banks. It is native to North America and can be found in the eastern and central parts of the United States as well as Canada.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Onoclea Sensibilis an invasive species?
A: No, Onoclea Sensibilis is not considered an invasive species.Q: Can I grow Onoclea Sensibilis indoors?
A: The plant prefers to grow outdoors but can be grown indoors if given enough shade and humidity.Q: How often should I water my Onoclea Sensibilis plant?
A: The plant prefers consistent moisture, so water it regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.Q: How do I propagate Onoclea Sensibilis?
A: You can divide the plant in the spring or fall to propagate it.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Onoclea Sensibilis:
- Onoclea Struthiopteris
- Polystichum Acrostichoides
- Dryopteris Filix-Mas
- Athyrium Niponicum
References
- “Onoclea Sensibilis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b517.
- “Onoclea Sensibilis.” Gardenia, www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/onoclea-sensibilis-sensitive-fern.
- “Onoclea Sensibilis.” North Carolina State Extension, plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/onoclea-sensibilis/.
