Contents
Description
Sticherus Urceolatus, commonly known as the Shield Fern, is a tropical fern species that belongs to the family Gleicheniaceae. This fern species is native to the Pacific region, including Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific Islands. Shield Ferns are known for their leathery and glossy fronds that are triangular in shape and can grow up to 1.5 meters long.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Gleicheniales |
| Family | Gleicheniaceae |
| Genus | Sticherus |
Appearance
The Shield Fern has leathery and glossy dark green fronds that are triangular in shape and can grow up to 1.5 meters long. The fronds are pinnate and have a central rachis with many small leaflets on each side. The fronds of the Shield Fern are tightly arranged and give the plant a dense and bushy appearance. The fronds emerge from a central crown that is covered with brown scales. The scales protect the young fronds as they emerge from the crown and give the plant a unique appearance.
Care Guide
The Shield Fern is easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of growing conditions. Here are some tips for taking care of your Shield Fern:
- Water: The Shield Fern requires consistent moisture to thrive. Water the plant regularly and make sure that the soil is always moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the Shield Fern once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The Shield Fern prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Use a potting mix that is designed for ferns or create your own mix with equal parts of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite.
- Sunlight: The Shield Fern prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight as it can burn the fronds.
- Hardiness Zones: The Shield Fern is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Shield Fern is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. These pests can be controlled with a solution of water and dish soap or neem oil. The Shield Fern can also be susceptible to fungal diseases like root rot and leaf spot. These diseases can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overwatering.
Habitat
The Shield Fern is native to the Pacific region, including Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific Islands. It grows in a variety of habitats, including rainforests, wetlands, and along streams and rivers. The Shield Fern prefers moist and humid environments and can tolerate both sun and shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Shield Fern be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the Shield Fern can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with bright, indirect light and consistent moisture.
Q: How often should I water my Shield Fern?
A: The Shield Fern requires consistent moisture. Water the plant regularly and make sure that the soil is always moist but not waterlogged.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Shield Fern?
A: The Shield Fern is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Q: Can the Shield Fern be propagated?
A: Yes, the Shield Fern can be propagated by dividing the plant in the spring or early summer.
Related Plants
- Sticherus cunninghamii
- Sticherus tener
- Sticherus flabellatus
- Sticherus bifidus
References
- “Sticherus urceolatus.” Australian National Botanic Gardens. Accessed October 20, 2021. https://www.anbg.gov.au/gnp/interns-2006/sticherus-urceolatus.html.
- “Sticherus urceolatus (Cav.) J.Sm. ex Hook.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed October 20, 2021. http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:17165780-1.
- “Sticherus urceolatus.” PlantNet. Accessed October 20, 2021. https://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Sticherus~urceolatus.
