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Description
Phegopteris Connectilis, also known as the Long Beech Fern, is a deciduous fern that belongs to the family of Thelypteridaceae. It is native to North America and can be found in moist woodlands, rocky slopes, and stream banks. The fern gets its name from its long and slender fronds, which can grow up to three feet in length.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Thelypteridales |
| Family | Thelypteridaceae |
| Genus | Phegopteris |
Appearance
The Long Beech Fern has long and narrow fronds that are a bright green color. The fronds are bipinnate, which means they have multiple divisions, and the segments are finely toothed. The fronds emerge in the spring and can grow up to three feet long. As the fronds age, they turn a yellowish-green color and eventually brown before dropping off in the fall.
Care Guide
Phegopteris Connectilis is a relatively low-maintenance fern. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:- Water: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant regularly during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter when the plant is dormant.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.- Soil: Plant the fern in a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: The Long Beech Fern prefers partial shade to full shade. Direct sunlight can scorch the fronds.- Hardiness Zones: Phegopteris Connectilis is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Long Beech Fern is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some issues that may arise:- Slugs and snails: These pests can damage the fronds of the plant. Use slug bait or handpick the pests to control them.- Scale insects: These pests can be found on the fronds and can cause yellowing and distortion. Use insecticidal soap to control the pests.- Root rot: Overwatering or poorly draining soil can lead to root rot. Make sure the soil is well-draining and reduce watering if necessary.
Habitat
Phegopteris Connectilis is native to North America and can be found in moist woodlands, rocky slopes, and stream banks. The fern grows best in areas with partial shade and moist soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Phegopteris Connectilis a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, Phegopteris Connectilis is a relatively low-maintenance fern that is a good option for beginners.
Q: Can Phegopteris Connectilis be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the fern can be grown indoors as long as it is placed in a location with bright, indirect sunlight and kept consistently moist.
Q: How often should I fertilize Phegopteris Connectilis?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
Q: Can Phegopteris Connectilis tolerate dry conditions?
A: No, the fern prefers moist soil and cannot tolerate dry conditions.
Related Plants
Here are some plants that are related to Phegopteris Connectilis:- Phegopteris hexagonoptera (Broad Beech Fern)- Thelypteris noveboracensis (New York Fern)- Dryopteris marginalis (Marginal Wood Fern)- Onoclea sensibilis (Sensitive Fern)
References
– “Phegopteris connectilis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 19, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281811.- “Phegopteris connectilis.” Plant Database. Accessed September 19, 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=PHCO.- “Phegopteris connectilis.” PlantFiles. Accessed September 19, 2021. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/61904/.
