Contents
Description
Sceptridium Rugulosum, commonly known as the Rattlesnake Fern, is a species of fern native to North America. It is a small fern, growing up to 30 centimeters in height. The fronds are erect, simple, and unbranched, with a glossy green color. The fronds grow from a short, creeping rhizome, which is covered in light brown scales. Sceptridium Rugulosum gets its common name from the rattling sound the dried fronds make in the wind.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Pteridopsida |
| Order | Pteridales |
| Family | Ophioglossaceae |
| Genus | Sceptridium |
Appearance
The fronds of Sceptridium Rugulosum are erect, simple, and unbranched, with a glossy green color. They grow up to 30 centimeters in height and are triangular in shape with a pointed tip. The fronds grow from a short, creeping rhizome, which is covered in light brown scales. The fronds are deciduous and will die back in the fall, leaving behind the rattling sound that gives the plant its common name.
Care Guide
Sceptridium Rugulosum prefers a moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant likes to be kept consistently moist, but not waterlogged. It can tolerate some drought, but prolonged dry periods can cause the fronds to wither and die.
Fertilization is not necessary for Sceptridium Rugulosum, as it will get most of its nutrients from the soil. However, if you want to encourage growth, you can use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
The plant prefers partial to full shade, but can tolerate some direct sunlight. It is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sceptridium Rugulosum is generally not bothered by pests or diseases. However, it can be susceptible to scale insects and spider mites. To prevent infestations, keep the plant clean and well-watered.
Habitat
Sceptridium Rugulosum is native to North America, and can be found in moist, shaded areas such as woodlands and stream banks. It prefers a cool, damp climate and can be found in USDA hardiness zones 3-8.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Sceptridium Rugulosum?
A: Sceptridium Rugulosum prefers to be kept consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Q: Can Sceptridium Rugulosum tolerate direct sunlight?
A: The plant prefers partial to full shade, but can tolerate some direct sunlight.
Q: What is the best soil type for Sceptridium Rugulosum?
A: Sceptridium Rugulosum prefers a moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Q: Does Sceptridium Rugulosum need fertilizer?
A: Fertilization is not necessary for Sceptridium Rugulosum, as it will get most of its nutrients from the soil. However, if you want to encourage growth, you can use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Related Plants
- Sceptridium Multifidum
- Sceptridium Depauperatum
- Sceptridium Oneidense
- Sceptridium Fern
References
- “Sceptridium rugulosum (L.) Schott.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science. Accessed 22 June 2021.
- “Rattlesnake Fern (Sceptridium rugulosum).” Illinois Wildflowers. Accessed 22 June 2021.
- “Sceptridium rugulosum (L.) Schott.” Flora of North America, vol. 2. Accessed 22 June 2021.
