Overview
Lastrea phegopteris (L.) Bory, commonly known as the Beech Fern, is a species of fern native to Europe, North Africa, and Asia. It belongs to the family Dryopteridaceae and is a terrestrial plant that thrives in moist and shady habitats such as forests, ravines, woodland, and wet meadows. The plant has several common names, including Northern Beechfern, Long Beechfern, and Narrow Beechfern
Appearance
Lastrea phegopteris has a distinctive appearance that includes a slender, upright, and deeply lobed frond that grows up to 70cm in height. The fern's fronds are hairless, and the stipe is shorter than the blade. The leaflets of the Beech Fern are also finely dissected, with a bright green color that contrasts with greyish-green scales on the stem. The plant's root system consists of a branching rhizome that creates clumps of fronds, and the spores of the fern are produced in clusters that appear like small dots on the underside of the fronds.
Uses
Lastrea phegopteris has minimal uses in modern times, except as an ornamental garden plant that is grown for its attractive foliage. The plant's young fronds are edible and can be boiled or steamed as an accompaniment to meals; however, this practice is uncommon. The plant has been used traditionally as a medicinal herb to treat skin infections, tuberculosis, and menstrual disorders, but its efficacy has not been scientifically validated. Additionally, Lastrea phegopteris can be used as an indicator plant to determine the level of air pollution in an area as its growth is sensitive to air pollution.
Light Requirements
Lastrea phegopteris requires partial to full shade for optimal growth. Direct sunlight can cause leaf scorching, while too much shade can make the plant leggy and weak. In its natural habitat, this plant grows under the canopy of trees, where it receives dappled sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Lastrea phegopteris is adapted to cool, temperate climates and prefers moderate temperatures. It can tolerate some heat but performs best in temperatures between 12-18°C. In regions with hot summers, it is important to ensure that the plant is not exposed to prolonged periods of direct sunlight.
Soil Requirements
The soil for Lastrea phegopteris should be moist, well-drained, and high in organic matter. The plant prefers soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH, between 5.5 and 7.5. The addition of compost or other organic matter can improve soil structure and fertility, which can help the plant to grow better.
Cultivation Methods
The Lastrea phegopteris, commonly referred to as beech fern, is a perennial plant that can grow up to 2 feet tall. It thrives in partially shaded areas with moist soil that is rich in organic matter. To cultivate this plant, ensure that you plant it in a loamy soil mixture that has good drainage. It is also important to choose a suitable site with the right amount of light exposure.
Watering Needs
Since the Lastrea phegopteris is a moisture-loving plant, it requires regular watering to maintain its lush green foliage. However, it is essential to avoid over-watering as this can lead to root rot. Keep the soil moist but not too wet, and ensure that the plant has adequate drainage to prevent standing water.
Fertilization
Although the Lastrea phegopteris can grow in nutrient-rich soil, it still requires some additional fertilizer to grow well. You can add a slow-release fertilizer to the soil during planting, and supplement this with a liquid fertilizer during the growing season. However, take care not to over-fertilize as this can burn the plant's roots.
Pruning
The Lastrea phegopteris does not require regular pruning, but you may need to remove old or damaged fronds periodically. This is best done in early spring before new growth appears. Use a pair of sharp, sterile pruning shears to cut back the affected fronds at the base of the plant. Pruning will help stimulate new growth and keep the plant looking neat and tidy.
Propagation of Lastrea phegopteris
Lastrea phegopteris, commonly known as Long Beech Fern, is a deciduous fern that can be propagated in several ways. The fern grows in zones 4-8 and typically reaches a height of 1-2 feet.
Division
The most popular way to propagate Lastrea phegopteris is through division. When the fern has grown large enough, it can be divided into smaller sections that can then be planted in different locations. The ideal time for division is in the spring, just as new growth begins to emerge.
To divide the fern, carefully dig up the rootball and use a sharp knife or gardening tool to separate the root into several sections. Each section should have at least one growing tip and a healthy root system. Replant each section in a shaded area with moist, well-drained soil.
Spores
Another way to propagate Lastrea phegopteris is through spores. Spores are tiny, dust-like particles that are produced by the fern and can be collected to grow new plants. Collecting spores can be a time-consuming process, but it is a great way to produce a large number of plants from a single fern.
To collect spores, wait until the fern has produced spores and they have fallen onto a piece of paper placed beneath the plant. Once collected, spores can be sown in trays filled with a mixture of sand and peat moss. Keep the trays in a humid environment, and after a few weeks, the spores should germinate. The resulting plants can then be transferred to a shaded location with well-drained soil.
Disease Management for Lastrea phegopteris (L.) Bory
Lastrea phegopteris (L.) Bory is susceptible to several diseases that can damage and kill the plant. These diseases include:
- Rust: Rust is a fungal disease that causes orange-yellow spots on the leaves of the plant. To manage rust, remove and destroy infected leaves, and spray the plant with a fungicide.
- Fungal Leaf Spots: Fungal leaf spots are small, circular, dark spots that occur on the leaves of the plant. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected leaves and apply a fungicide to the plant.
- Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes brown, sunken spots on the leaves of the plant, as well as on the stems. To manage anthracnose, remove and destroy infected leaves, branches, and stems, and spray the plant with a fungicide.
Pest Management for Lastrea phegopteris (L.) Bory
Lastrea phegopteris (L.) Bory is also susceptible to several pests that can damage the plant. These pests include:
- Mites: Mites can damage the leaves of the plant by sucking out the sap. To manage mites, wash the plant with water and spray with insecticidal soap.
- Slugs and Snails: Slugs and snails can eat the leaves of the plant. To manage slugs and snails, handpick them off the plant and create a barrier around the plant with copper tape or eggshells.
- Scale Insects: Scale insects are small, hard, and flat insects that attach themselves to the leaves of the plant and suck out the sap. To manage scale insects, remove and destroy infected leaves and branches, and spray the plant with a horticultural oil.
