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Description
Pityrogramma Calomelanos, commonly known as the “Goldie’s Fern”, is a species of fern that belongs to the family Pteridaceae. It is native to the tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, including Florida, the Caribbean, and parts of South America. The plant is characterized by its delicate fronds, which can grow up to 60 cm in length and 15 cm in width. It is a popular houseplant due to its attractive foliage and ease of care.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Pteridopsida |
| Order | Pteridales |
| Family | Pteridaceae |
| Genus | Pityrogramma |
| Species | Calomelanos |
Appearance
The Pityrogramma Calomelanos has thin, elongated fronds that are a bright green color. The fronds are deeply lobed and have a delicate, lacy appearance. The undersides of the fronds are covered in a layer of golden scales, which give the plant its common name, “Goldie’s Fern”. The scales also help the plant to conserve moisture and protect it from the sun’s rays. The fronds grow from a central rosette and can reach up to 60 cm in length and 15 cm in width.
Care Guide
To care for a Pityrogramma Calomelanos, it is important to provide it with the right conditions:- Water: Water the plant when the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch. Do not allow the soil to dry out completely or become waterlogged.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: Use a well-draining, peat-based soil mix.- Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sunlight.- Hardiness Zones: Pityrogramma Calomelanos is hardy in zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Pityrogramma Calomelanos is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. To prevent infestations, keep the plant clean and free of debris. If an infestation occurs, treat it with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The Pityrogramma Calomelanos is native to the tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, where it grows in humid, shaded areas. It can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, swamps, and rocky slopes. The plant is also commonly grown as a houseplant in other parts of the world.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Pityrogramma Calomelanos?
A: Water the plant when the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch. Do not allow the soil to dry out completely or become waterlogged.
Q: What kind of soil does Pityrogramma Calomelanos need?
A: Use a well-draining, peat-based soil mix.
Q: What hardiness zones can Pityrogramma Calomelanos grow in?
A: Pityrogramma Calomelanos is hardy in zones 8-11.
Q: What pests and diseases are common in Pityrogramma Calomelanos?
A: The plant is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but can be susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Related Plants
– Pityrogramma Triangularis- Pityrogramma Argentea- Pityrogramma Calomelanos ‘Aureoflava’
References
– “Pityrogramma Calomelanos.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279874.- “Goldie’s Fern.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/goldies-fern-care-1902776.- “Pityrogramma Calomelanos.” Plant Care Today, plantcaretoday.com/pityrogramma-calomelanos-goldies-fern.
