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Description
Polypodium Glycyrrhiza, also known as Licorice Fern, is a species of fern native to North America. It belongs to the family Polypodiaceae and is a perennial plant that grows up to 60 cm in height. Its fronds are evergreen, leathery, and dark green in color.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Polypodiaceae |
| Genus | Polypodium |
Appearance
The Licorice Fern has fronds that are typically 20-40 cm long and 3-6 cm wide. The fronds are leathery and glossy, with a dark green color. The fronds grow in a rosette pattern, emerging from a creeping rhizome that is covered with brown scales. The plant produces spores on the underside of the fronds in small, round sori.
Care Guide
To care for Polypodium Glycyrrhiza, it is important to provide it with the right conditions. The plant prefers moist soil that is well-draining and rich in organic matter. It can be grown in full shade to partial shade, but should not be exposed to direct sunlight. The Licorice Fern is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.Watering should be done regularly, but not excessively. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. It is important to avoid letting the soil dry out completely, as this can cause the plant to wilt and die. Fertilization is not necessary, but a balanced, slow-release fertilizer can be applied in the spring if desired.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Licorice Fern is generally not susceptible to pests or diseases. However, it may occasionally be affected by spider mites, mealybugs, or scale insects. These can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Root rot can be a problem if the soil is too wet, so it is important to ensure that the soil is well-draining.
Habitat
Polypodium Glycyrrhiza is native to North America and can be found growing in moist, shaded areas such as forests, cliffs, and rocky outcrops. It is commonly found in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States, as well as in parts of Canada and Alaska.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Licorice Fern be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Licorice Fern can be grown indoors in a container with well-draining soil and a humid environment.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Licorice Fern?
A: Fertilization is not necessary, but a balanced, slow-release fertilizer can be applied in the spring if desired.
Q: What is the optimal temperature range for Licorice Fern?
A: Licorice Fern prefers cooler temperatures and grows best in temperatures ranging from 50-70°F (10-21°C).
Q: How can I propagate Licorice Fern?
A: Licorice Fern can be propagated through spores or by dividing the rhizomes in the spring.
Related Plants
- Polypodium californicum
- Polypodium hesperium
- Polypodium scouleri
- Polypodium vulgare
References
- “Polypodium glycyrrhiza.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 9 Sep. 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277983&isprofile=0&=">
- “Licorice Fern.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 9 Sep. 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/7005/polypodium-glycyrrhiza/details>
- “Polypodium Glycyrrhiza.” Pacific Northwest Plant Database. Accessed 9 Sep. 2021. <https://depts.washington.edu/propplnt/Plants/Polypodium%20glycyrrhiza.htm>
