Contents
Description
Pellaea Ternifolia is a fern species that is native to North America. It is commonly known as the “Alpine lace fern” or “Sierra cliff brake”. This fern grows in rocky crevices and cliffs, and it can also grow in well-draining soil in gardens. The leaves of the Pellaea Ternifolia are delicate and lace-like, and they can grow up to 18 inches long. This fern is an evergreen, which means that it retains its leaves throughout the year.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Pteridales |
| Family | Pteridaceae |
| Genus | Pellaea |
Appearance
The leaves of Pellaea Ternifolia are delicate and lace-like, with a light green color. The leaves grow up to 18 inches long and are arranged in a rosette pattern. This fern is an evergreen, which means that it retains its leaves throughout the year. The fronds of the Pellaea Ternifolia are triangular in shape, and they can grow up to 3 inches wide. The stems of this fern are black and wiry, and they can grow up to 10 inches long.
Care Guide
Water: Pellaea Ternifolia prefers to be kept moist, but not waterlogged. Water the fern when the soil feels dry to the touch.
Fertilization: Feed Pellaea Ternifolia with a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
Soil: Pellaea Ternifolia prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged.
Sunlight: Pellaea Ternifolia prefers partial shade to full shade. Direct sunlight can scorch the delicate leaves of this fern.
Hardiness Zones: Pellaea Ternifolia is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pellaea Ternifolia is relatively pest-free, but it can be susceptible to mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. To prevent pests, make sure to keep the fern clean and free of dust. If pests do appear, treat them with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
The most common disease that affects Pellaea Ternifolia is root rot, which is caused by overwatering. To prevent root rot, make sure to water the fern only when the soil feels dry to the touch.
Habitat
Pellaea Ternifolia is native to North America, and it is commonly found in rocky crevices and cliffs in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. This fern can also be grown in gardens in well-draining soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Pellaea Ternifolia be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Pellaea Ternifolia can be grown indoors as long as it is placed in a location with bright, indirect light.
Q: Does Pellaea Ternifolia need to be pruned?
A: No, Pellaea Ternifolia does not need to be pruned. However, you can remove any yellow or dead fronds to keep the fern looking neat.
Q: How often should I fertilize Pellaea Ternifolia?
A: Pellaea Ternifolia should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season.
Q: How often should I water Pellaea Ternifolia?
A: Water Pellaea Ternifolia when the soil feels dry to the touch.
Related Plants
- Pellaea Andromedifolia
- Pellaea Falcata
- Pellaea Rotundifolia
- Pellaea Atropurpurea
- Pellaea Wrightiana
References
- “Pellaea ternifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279647
- “Pellaea ternifolia.” Plant Database. https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Pellaea+ternifolia
- “Pellaea ternifolia.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/348190/Pellaea-ternifolia/Details
