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Description
Polystichum Stenophyllum is a fern species that belongs to the Dryopteridaceae family. It is native to Japan and Korea and is commonly known as Narrow-leaved Holly Fern. This evergreen fern grows up to 60 cm tall and has a clumping habit. Its fronds are shiny dark green, leathery, and have a holly-like appearance. This fern is a great addition to any garden and can be used as a ground cover or as an accent plant.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Dryopteridaceae |
| Genus | Polystichum |
Appearance
The Polystichum Stenophyllum has a clumping habit and grows up to 60 cm tall. Its fronds are shiny dark green, leathery, and have a holly-like appearance. The fronds are narrow and lance-shaped with pointed tips. The fern’s spores are produced on the undersides of the fronds and are arranged in neat rows. This fern is evergreen and keeps its foliage throughout the year.
Care Guide
The Polystichum Stenophyllum is a low maintenance fern and is easy to care for. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. This fern prefers partial to full shade and can tolerate dry soil but prefers consistent moisture. Fertilize this fern with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring. This fern is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Polystichum Stenophyllum is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to scale insects and mealybugs. Regular inspection of the fern can help prevent infestations. The fern can also be affected by leaf spot and rust diseases. These can be prevented by avoiding overhead watering and ensuring good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
The Polystichum Stenophyllum is native to Japan and Korea and can be found growing in shady, moist areas such as forests and along streams. It is commonly used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Polystichum Stenophyllum an evergreen fern?
A: Yes, it is an evergreen fern and keeps its foliage throughout the year.
Q: What type of soil does the Polystichum Stenophyllum prefer?
A: It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect this fern?
A: Scale insects, mealybugs, leaf spot, and rust diseases can affect this fern.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Polystichum Stenophyllum?
A: It is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Related Plants
- Polystichum setiferum
- Polystichum acrostichoides
- Polystichum munitum
References
- “Polystichum Stenophyllum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=k790.
- “Polystichum Stenophyllum.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/205990/polystichum-stenophyllum/details.
- “Narrow-leaved Holly Fern.” Plant Care Guide, plantcareguide.com/narrow-leaved-holly-fern/.
