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Description
Schizaea Pusilla, commonly known as the little curly grass fern or the little mole fern, is a small and delicate fern that belongs to the Schizaeaceae family. This fern is native to tropical and subtropical regions around the world and is often found growing in moist and shady areas such as forests, swamps, and wetlands.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Cyatheales |
| Family | Schizaeaceae |
| Genus | Schizaea |
Appearance
Schizaea Pusilla is a tiny fern that grows up to 10cm in height. Its fronds are thin, wiry, and curly, and they form a unique rosette shape. The fronds are a light green color and are translucent, giving them a delicate appearance. The fern’s root system is also small and delicate, consisting of small rhizomes that grow horizontally just beneath the soil surface.
Care Guide
When it comes to caring for Schizaea Pusilla, it is important to keep the following factors in mind:
- Water: This fern thrives in moist soil, so it is important to keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Schizaea Pusilla does not require frequent fertilization. A light application of balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season is sufficient.
- Soil: This fern prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Schizaea Pusilla prefers partial to full shade and is not tolerant of direct sunlight.
- Hardiness Zones: This fern is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Schizaea Pusilla is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is kept too wet. It is important to ensure that the soil is well-draining and that the fern is not overwatered.
Habitat
Schizaea Pusilla is native to tropical and subtropical regions around the world, including Africa, Asia, Australia, and the Americas. It is often found growing in moist and shady areas such as forests, swamps, and wetlands. It can also be found growing on rocks and in crevices.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Schizaea Pusilla?
A: This fern thrives in moist soil, so it is important to keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Water it whenever the soil feels dry to the touch.
Q: Can Schizaea Pusilla be grown indoors?
A: Yes, this fern can be grown indoors in a bright, humid location that receives partial to full shade.
Q: Is Schizaea Pusilla a good plant for a terrarium?
A: Yes, this fern is an excellent choice for a terrarium as it thrives in high humidity and low light conditions.
Q: How can I propagate Schizaea Pusilla?
A: This fern can be propagated by dividing the rhizomes and replanting them in a new location. It can also be propagated by spores, although this method can be more challenging.
Related Plants
- Schizaea Dichotoma
- Schizaea Fistulosa
- Schizaea Membranacea
- Schizaea Pectinata
References
- “Schizaea Pusilla.” Flora of North America. www.floranorthamerica.org
- “Schizaea Pusilla.” Missouri Botanical Garden. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org
- “Schizaea Pusilla.” Royal Horticultural Society. www.rhs.org.uk
