Contents
Description
Woodsia Polystichoides is a perennial fern that belongs to the Woodsia genus and the family of Woodsiaceae. It is native to North America, growing in rocky crevices, cliffs, and talus slopes. The plant is deciduous and grows up to 30cm in height, with thin, wiry, and black stems that support the fronds. The fronds are lance-shaped and pinnately divided, with a dark green color and a rough texture. The plant reproduces through spores.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Woodsiaceae |
| Genus | Woodsia |
Appearance
The Woodsia Polystichoides has a unique appearance that makes it stand out among other ferns. Its fronds are lance-shaped and pinnately divided, with a dark green color and a rough texture. The fronds grow up to 30cm in height and are supported by thin, wiry, and black stems. The plant is deciduous, which means it sheds its fronds in the fall and grows new ones in the spring. The spores are produced in small clusters under the fronds.
Care Guide
Woodsia Polystichoides is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to take care of it:
- Water: The plant needs to be watered regularly, but make sure not to overwater it as it can lead to root rot. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization, but you can add some organic matter to the soil to improve its quality.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full shade, and it can grow in both dry and moist conditions.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Woodsia Polystichoides is generally not susceptible to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by spider mites and aphids, which can be controlled by washing the plant with water or using insecticidal soap. The plant can also be affected by fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew and rust, which can be treated with a fungicide.
Habitat
The Woodsia Polystichoides is native to North America and can be found in rocky crevices, cliffs, and talus slopes. It prefers well-draining soil and partial to full shade. The plant is adapted to dry and moist conditions, and it is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Woodsia Polystichoides easy to grow?
A: Yes, Woodsia Polystichoides is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow.
Q: What is the ideal soil for Woodsia Polystichoides?
A: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Q: Does Woodsia Polystichoides require fertilization?
A: No, the plant does not require fertilization, but you can add some organic matter to the soil to improve its quality.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Woodsia Polystichoides?
A: The plant is generally not susceptible to pests and diseases, but it can be affected by spider mites, aphids, powdery mildew, and rust.
Related Plants
- Woodsia alpina
- Woodsia ilvensis
- Woodsia obtusa
- Woodsia scopulina
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Woodsia polystichoides. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b945
- NC State Extension. (n.d.). Woodsia polystichoides. Retrieved from https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/woodsia-polystichoides/
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Woodsia polystichoides. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=WOPO
