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Description
Ophioglossum Pusillum, commonly known as the Adder’s Tongue Fern, is a small and delicate plant that belongs to the family Ophioglossaceae. It is native to North America and can be found in moist, shaded areas such as forests, swamps, and wet meadows. The plant is highly unique due to its unique fronds that resemble the tongue of a snake.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Ophioglossopsida |
| Order | Ophioglossales |
| Family | Ophioglossaceae |
| Genus | Ophioglossum |
Appearance
The fronds of Ophioglossum Pusillum are typically 5-20 cm long and 2-5 mm wide. They are bright green in color and are undivided, resembling the tongue of a snake. The fronds grow in a single, upright cluster from a short, fleshy stem that emerges from the ground. The plant does not have true roots, but instead has a rhizome that grows horizontally beneath the soil surface.
Care Guide
Ophioglossum Pusillum is a relatively low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are a few tips to ensure that your plant thrives:- Water: The plant prefers moist soil, so it should be watered regularly to keep the soil consistently damp.- Fertilization: The plant does not require regular fertilization, but a light application of a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month during the growing season can help promote growth.- Soil: The plant prefers moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: The plant prefers shade or partial shade, and should not be exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods of time.- Hardiness Zones: Ophioglossum Pusillum is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ophioglossum Pusillum is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can still be affected by a few common issues. Here are a few to look out for:- Slugs and snails: These pests can damage the fronds of the plant by feeding on them. Use slug and snail bait or handpick them off the plant.- Fungal diseases: The plant can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as rust and powdery mildew. These can be treated with fungicides or by removing affected parts of the plant.
Habitat
Ophioglossum Pusillum is native to North America and can be found in moist, shaded areas such as forests, swamps, and wet meadows. It prefers soil that is moist and rich in organic matter, and can often be found growing alongside other ferns and woodland plants.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Ophioglossum Pusillum a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, Ophioglossum Pusillum is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for.
Q: Can Ophioglossum Pusillum be grown indoors?
A: While it can technically be grown indoors, it prefers moist, shaded outdoor environments.
Q: How often should I water Ophioglossum Pusillum?
A: The plant prefers consistently moist soil, so it should be watered regularly to keep the soil damp.
Q: Can Ophioglossum Pusillum be propagated?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated by dividing the rhizome and planting it in new soil.
Related Plants
– Ophioglossum vulgatum (Common Adder’s Tongue)- Botrychium dissectum (Western Grape Fern)- Phegopteris connectilis (Beechfern)- Matteuccia struthiopteris (Ostrich Fern)
References
– “Ophioglossum Pusillum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, 2021, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a476.- “Ophioglossum Pusillum (L.) Ker Gawl.” Flora of North America, vol. 2, 1993, p. 118, www.jstor.org/stable/4393957.
