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Description
Polypodium Cambricum, also known as the Welsh Polypody, is a species of fern that is native to western Europe. It is a small fern that typically grows to be about 10-20 cm in height. This fern has a creeping rhizome that grows along the surface of the soil, producing fronds that are dark green and glossy in appearance. The fronds are pinnate, meaning that they have leaflets that are arranged on either side of a central stalk.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Polypodiaceae |
| Genus | Polypodium |
Appearance
The Polypodium Cambricum has fronds that are dark green and glossy in appearance, growing to be about 10-20 cm in height. The fronds are pinnate, meaning that they have leaflets that are arranged on either side of a central stalk. The leaflets are typically lance-shaped, with a slightly toothed margin. The fronds emerge from a creeping rhizome that grows along the surface of the soil. This fern is a deciduous perennial, meaning that it dies back to the ground in the winter and regrows in the spring.
Care Guide
Water: The Polypodium Cambricum prefers moist soil, so it is important to keep the soil consistently moist. However, be careful not to overwater the plant, as this can lead to root rot.Fertilization: This fern does not require a lot of fertilization, but it can benefit from a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring.Soil: The Polypodium Cambricum prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: This fern prefers partial shade to full shade. It cannot tolerate direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves.Hardiness Zones: The Polypodium Cambricum is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Polypodium Cambricum is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to mealybugs and scale insects, which can be treated with an insecticidal soap or neem oil spray. This fern can also be affected by fungal diseases such as leaf spot and powdery mildew, which can be treated with a fungicide.
Habitat
The Polypodium Cambricum is native to western Europe, where it can be found growing in damp woodlands, on shaded banks, and in rocky crevices. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter and partial to full shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Polypodium Cambricum be grown indoors?
A: Yes, this fern can be grown indoors in a bright, humid location.Q: How often should I water the Polypodium Cambricum?
A: This fern prefers consistently moist soil, so it may need to be watered every few days.Q: Can the Polypodium Cambricum tolerate frost?
A: No, this fern is not frost hardy and should be protected from freezing temperatures.Q: How can I propagate the Polypodium Cambricum?
A: This fern can be propagated by dividing the rhizome in the spring.
Related Plants
- Polypodium Vulgare
- Polypodium Punctatum
- Polypodium Glycyrrhiza
- Polypodium Interjectum
References
- “Polypodium Cambricum.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/19923/Polypodium-cambricum/Details. Accessed 7 June 2021.
- Dirr, Michael A. Dirr’s Encyclopedia of Trees and Shrubs. Timber Press, 2011.
- “Polypodium Cambricum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=n140. Accessed 7 June 2021.
