Sceptridium Lunarioides, commonly known as the Moonwort Fern, is a unique fern that belongs to the Ophioglossaceae family. This fern is native to North America and is found in damp and shady areas such as forests, swamps, and wetlands. The Moonwort Fern is known for its interesting appearance and requires specific care to thrive. In this article, we will discuss the taxonomic information, appearance, care guide, common pests and diseases, habitat, related plants, and references of the Moonwort Fern.
Contents
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Ophioglossopsida |
| Order | Ophioglossales |
| Family | Ophioglossaceae |
| Genus | Sceptridium |
Appearance
The Moonwort Fern is a small fern that grows up to 20cm tall. It has a single frond that is divided into two parts. The sterile part is green and triangular and is about 10cm long. The fertile part is brownish and cylindrical and is about 5cm long. The Moonwort Fern is a deciduous fern and its fronds die down in winter.
Care Guide
The Moonwort Fern requires specific care to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for this fern:
Water
The Moonwort Fern prefers a moist soil, so it is important to keep the soil consistently moist. However, make sure not to overwater the fern as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
The Moonwort Fern does not require frequent fertilization. A slow-release fertilizer can be applied once or twice a year in the spring or summer.
Soil
The Moonwort Fern prefers a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil mix of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite is ideal for this fern.
Sunlight
The Moonwort Fern prefers a shady area with indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can burn the fronds and cause damage to the fern.
Hardiness Zones
The Moonwort Fern grows best in USDA hardiness zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Moonwort Fern is susceptible to pests and diseases such as aphids, spider mites, and fungal infections. It is important to keep the fern clean and well-maintained to prevent infestations.
Habitat
The Moonwort Fern is native to North America and is found in damp and shady areas such as forests, swamps, and wetlands. It is commonly found in the eastern and central regions of North America.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Moonwort Fern be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the Moonwort Fern can be grown indoors in a shaded area with high humidity.
Q: Does the Moonwort Fern require pruning?
A: No, the Moonwort Fern does not require pruning. However, removing dead fronds can improve the appearance of the fern.
Q: How often should the Moonwort Fern be watered?
A: The Moonwort Fern should be watered when the top layer of soil feels dry. It is important to keep the soil consistently moist, but not overwater the fern.
Q: What is the best time to propagate the Moonwort Fern?
A: The best time to propagate the Moonwort Fern is in the spring when new growth appears. The fern can be divided into smaller sections and replanted in new soil.
Related Plants
- Sceptridium Oneidense
- Sceptridium Depauperatum
- Sceptridium Multifidum
References
- Encyclopedia of Life. “Sceptridium Lunarioides (Moonwort Fern)”. Encyclopedia of Life, 2021, https://eol.org/pages/609980/details. Accessed 10 June 2021.
- Missouri Botanical Garden. “Sceptridium Lunarioides”. Missouri Botanical Garden, 2021, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277116&isprofile=0&. Accessed 10 June 2021.
- North Carolina State University. “Sceptridium Lunarioides”. North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox, 2021, https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/sceptridium-lunarioides/. Accessed 10 June 2021.
