Contents
Description
Ophioglossaceae is a family of ferns that are characterized by their unique features. They are also known as adder’s-tongue ferns due to their long, slender, and pointed fronds that resemble a snake’s tongue. This family is distributed throughout the world, with most species found in the temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Ophioglossopsida |
| Order | Ophioglossales |
| Family | Ophioglossaceae |
| Genus | Ophioglossum, Botrychium, and Helminthostachys |
Appearance
Ophioglossaceae ferns have unique fronds that are long, slender, and pointed. The fronds grow in a single, erect spike that can reach up to 60cm in height. The fronds are green and leathery, and they have no distinct veins or midribs. The fertile fronds are narrower than the sterile fronds and are covered in sporangia that release spores. The spores are usually yellow, brown, or black and can be seen on the fronds.
Care Guide
Ophioglossaceae ferns require moderate care to thrive. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the ferns once a week, or when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the ferns once every two months during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
- Soil: Use well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Ophioglossaceae ferns prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5.
- Sunlight: Place the ferns in bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight, as it can scorch the fronds.
- Hardiness Zones: Ophioglossaceae ferns can grow in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ophioglossaceae ferns are susceptible to pests and diseases. Here are some common ones:
- Scale insects: These small insects attach themselves to the fronds and suck the sap, causing yellowing and wilting of the fronds.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests spin webs on the fronds and suck the sap, causing yellowing and wilting of the fronds.
- Root rot: This fungal disease causes the roots to rot, leading to stunted growth, yellowing of the fronds, and wilting.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes black or brown spots on the fronds, leading to yellowing and wilting of the fronds.
Habitat
Ophioglossaceae ferns are found in a variety of habitats, from wetlands and swamps to forests and meadows. They prefer moist, well-draining soil and can grow in full or partial shade. Some species are adapted to growing in nutrient-poor soils, while others prefer nutrient-rich soils.
Question and Answer
Q: Are Ophioglossaceae ferns easy to care for?
A: Ophioglossaceae ferns require moderate care to thrive, but they are not difficult to care for.
Q: Can Ophioglossaceae ferns grow in full sun?
A: No, Ophioglossaceae ferns prefer growing in bright, indirect sunlight and can be scorched by direct sunlight.
Q: How often should I fertilize Ophioglossaceae ferns?
A: Fertilize Ophioglossaceae ferns once every two months during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Ophioglossaceae ferns?
A: Ophioglossaceae ferns can grow in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 9.
Related Plants
- Adiantaceae (maidenhair ferns)
- Aspleniaceae (spleenworts)
- Pteridaceae (brake ferns)
- Polypodiaceae (polypod ferns)
References
- “Ophioglossaceae.” Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., n.d. Web. 15 Apr. 2021.
- “Ophioglossaceae.” Wikipedia. Wikimedia Foundation, 14 Mar. 2021. Web. 15 Apr. 2021.
- Dirr, Michael A. “Ophioglossaceae Botrychium spp.” Manual of Woody Landscape Plants: Their Identification, Ornamental Characteristics, Culture, Propagation and Uses. Champaign, IL: Stipes, 2009. 179-80. Print.
