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Description
Polystichum Neozelandicum, commonly known as the New Zealand Christmas Fern, is a fern species that is native to New Zealand. It is a member of the Dryopteridaceae family and is a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive evergreen foliage that remains green throughout the year.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Dryopteridaceae |
| Genus | Polystichum |
Appearance
Polystichum Neozelandicum is a fern species that can grow up to 3 feet tall and 4 feet wide. It has a clumping growth habit and produces fronds that are bright green in color. The fronds are deeply divided and have a leathery texture. The individual leaflets are pointed and have a serrated edge. The fronds grow in a circular pattern and give the plant a neat and tidy appearance. The plant produces spores on the undersides of the fronds.
Care Guide
Polystichum Neozelandicum is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this fern:
Water
Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more often during hot and dry periods.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing during the winter months when the plant is dormant.
Soil
Plant Polystichum Neozelandicum in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be acidic to neutral (pH 5.5 to 7.0).
Sunlight
Polystichum Neozelandicum prefers partial to full shade. Avoid placing the plant in direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves.
Hardiness Zones
Polystichum Neozelandicum is hardy in USDA zones 6 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Polystichum Neozelandicum is generally a disease-resistant plant. However, it can be susceptible to scale insects and mealybugs. These pests can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by root rot if the soil is too wet. Ensure that the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering the plant.
Habitat
Polystichum Neozelandicum is native to New Zealand and can be found growing in forests and along streams. It prefers moist and shady environments.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Polystichum Neozelandicum be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Polystichum Neozelandicum can be grown indoors as long as it is placed in a bright and humid location.
Q: How often should I repot my Polystichum Neozelandicum?
A: You only need to repot your Polystichum Neozelandicum when it outgrows its current container. This can take several years.
Q: Is Polystichum Neozelandicum toxic to pets?
A: Polystichum Neozelandicum is not toxic to pets.
Q: Can Polystichum Neozelandicum be propagated from spores?
A: Yes, Polystichum Neozelandicum can be propagated from spores. The spores can be collected from mature fronds and sown in a mixture of peat moss and sand.
Related Plants
- Polystichum Acrostichoides (Christmas Fern)
- Polystichum Munitum (Western Sword Fern)
- Polystichum Setiferum (Soft Shield Fern)
References
- “Polystichum neozelandicum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed June 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c810
- “Polystichum neozelandicum.” PlantNet. Accessed June 2021. https://www.plantnet.org.nz/nzflora/nzflora.html?name=Polystichum+neozelandicum
- “Polystichum neozelandicum.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed June 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/120764/Polystichum-neozelandicum/Details
