Pentagramma

Description

Pentagramma is a genus of ferns found in North America, from Alaska to Mexico. It belongs to the family Pteridaceae, which comprises around 1000 species of ferns. Pentagramma includes six species of deciduous or evergreen ferns, which can grow up to 30 cm tall. They are commonly known as the gold-back ferns, due to the golden scales on the underside of their fronds.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The fronds of Pentagramma ferns are pinnate, meaning that they have leaflets arranged on either side of the stem. The leaflets are lanceolate or oblong in shape, with a pointed tip and serrated edges. The upper surface of the fronds is green, while the lower surface is covered in golden or silver scales. The fronds emerge from a central rosette, which can be up to 10 cm in diameter. Pentagramma ferns are typically small in size, but can form dense colonies in the wild.

Care Guide

Pentagramma ferns are relatively easy to care for, and can be grown both indoors and outdoors. Here are some tips for keeping your Pentagramma fern healthy:

• Water: Pentagramma ferns prefer moist soil, but can tolerate some drought. Water them when the top inch of soil feels dry.
• Fertilization: Pentagramma ferns do not require regular fertilization, but can benefit from a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
• Soil: Pentagramma ferns prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
• Sunlight: Pentagramma ferns prefer partial shade to full shade. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the fronds.
• Hardiness Zones: Pentagramma ferns are hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Pentagramma ferns are relatively pest-resistant, but can be susceptible to a few common diseases:

• Leaf spot: This fungal disease appears as brown or black spots on the fronds. Remove infected fronds and avoid overhead watering to prevent the disease from spreading.
• Root rot: This fungal disease can occur if the soil is too moist or poorly drained. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering to prevent root rot.
• Spider mites: These tiny pests can infest the fronds and suck sap from the plant. Wash the fronds with a strong spray of water to dislodge the mites, or use an insecticidal soap.

Habitat

Pentagramma ferns are native to North America, where they can be found in a variety of habitats, including rocky slopes, meadows, and forests. They are particularly common in the western United States, where they often grow in dry, rocky soils.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Pentagramma ferns be grown indoors?

A: Yes, Pentagramma ferns can be grown indoors in a bright, humid location.

Q: How often should I water my Pentagramma fern?

A: Water your Pentagramma fern when the top inch of soil feels dry.

Q: Are Pentagramma ferns toxic to pets?

A: No, Pentagramma ferns are non-toxic to pets.

Q: Can Pentagramma ferns tolerate drought?

A: Yes, Pentagramma ferns can tolerate some drought, but prefer moist soil.

Related Plants

• Pellaea
• Cheilanthes
• Notholaena
• Adiantum

References

• Flora of North America: Pentagramma
• Rickard, W.H. (1980) The Ferns and Fern Allies of British Columbia. UBC Press.
• USDA Plants Database: Pentagramma