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Description
Selliguea Hastata, also known as the Bifid Spleenwort, is a fern species in the family Polypodiaceae. It is native to Southeast Asia, including Malaysia, Thailand, Borneo, and the Philippines. The plant grows in a creeping manner and has fronds that can reach up to 50 cm in length. The leaves are pinnately compound and are green in color.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Polypodiaceae |
| Genus | Selliguea |
Appearance
Selliguea Hastata has creeping rhizomes that can grow up to 3 cm in diameter. The fronds are bipinnate and grow in a spreading manner. The leaves are lance-shaped and can grow up to 50 cm in length. The midrib of the fronds is reddish-brown, while the leaflets are green and glossy. The plant has a compact growth habit and can be an excellent addition to any garden.
Care Guide
Selliguea Hastata requires moderate care and maintenance. Here are some tips for taking care of this plant:
Water: The plant requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil mix enriched with perlite and peat moss is ideal for this plant.
Sunlight: The plant thrives in bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can damage the leaves and cause them to turn yellow.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Selliguea Hastata is susceptible to pests and diseases, including spider mites, scale insects, and fungal infections. Here are some common pests and diseases that affect this plant:
Spider Mites: These pests can cause the leaves to turn yellow and die. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control spider mites.
Scale Insects: These pests can cause the leaves to wilt and die. Use a systemic insecticide to control scale insects.
Fungal Infections: These diseases can cause the leaves to rot and the plant to die. Use a fungicide to control fungal infections.
Habitat
Selliguea Hastata is native to Southeast Asia, including Malaysia, Thailand, Borneo, and the Philippines. The plant grows in tropical and subtropical rainforests and can be found growing on rocks, trees, and other plants.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Selliguea Hastata a good indoor plant?
A: Yes, Selliguea Hastata is an excellent indoor plant that is easy to care for and can thrive in low to bright light conditions.
Q: Can Selliguea Hastata tolerate full sun?
A: No, Selliguea Hastata prefers bright, indirect light and can be damaged by direct sunlight.
Q: How often should I water Selliguea Hastata?
A: Water Selliguea Hastata regularly during the growing season, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Q: What is the ideal temperature range for Selliguea Hastata?
A: Selliguea Hastata prefers temperatures between 65-85°F (18-29°C).
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Selliguea Hastata:
- Selliguea Javanica
- Selliguea Panduriformis
- Selliguea Tripinnatifida
References
- “Selliguea hastata (Wall. ex Hook. & Grev.) C. Chr.” The Plant List (2021). www.theplantlist.org.
- “Bifid Spleenwort.” Missouri Botanical Garden (2021). www.missouribotanicalgarden.org.
- “Selliguea Hastata.” World Ferns (2021). www.worldferns.com.
