Introduction
Phalangium viviparum Hort. is a plant species belonging to the family Melanthiaceae. It is a herbaceous perennial plant, which is native to North America. This plant is commonly known as the Walking fern or Mother of thousands due to its unique ability to produce plantlets on its fronds.
Appearance
The plant Phalangium viviparum Hort. has a unique appearance, with its fronds sprouting plantlets, which can be up to several centimeters long. It grows up to 30 to 60 centimeters tall and has a rhizomatic root system. The leaves are lance-shaped and up to 15 centimeters long, and the stems are thin and wiry, with a greenish-yellow color.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as the Walking fern, which is derived from its ability to "walk" across the ground by sending out new fronds with plantlets at their tips. It is also called Mother of thousands, as the plantlets can grow to number in the thousands. Other common names for this plant include Live-forever, All heal, and Live-long.
Uses
Phalangium viviparum Hort. is primarily grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and in containers due to its attractive appearance. It is an excellent plant choice for those who are looking for a plant that is easy to care for and can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. The plant is also used in several traditional medicine remedies, where its parts are believed to possess medicinal properties. The root bark is used for its strong laxative effect, while the leaves are used to treat skin irritations and ulcers, and the plant has been used to treat fever and inflammation in the past.
However, it is important to note that before using any plants for medicinal purposes, it is always advisable to seek professional advice from healthcare professionals or herbalists.
Typical Growth Conditions for Phalangium viviparum Hort.
Phalangium viviparum Hort. is a hardy, low-maintenance plant that thrives in a variety of growing conditions. Its growth conditions can be broken down into several key elements that include light, temperature, and soil requirements.
Light Requirements
Phalangium viviparum Hort. prefers bright but indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while too little light can cause the plant to stretch and weaken. A location that receives morning sun and afternoon shade is ideal. If grown indoors, placing the plant near a bright window or using artificial grow lights can help it thrive.
Temperature Requirements
Phalangium viviparum Hort. can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It prefers a cooler climate, with daytime temperatures ranging from 60-75°F (15-24°C) and nighttime temperatures as low as 50°F (10°C). In hotter climates, it can thrive if provided with adequate shade and moisture. However, it is essential to protect the plant from extreme temperatures, both hot and cold.
Soil Requirements
Phalangium viviparum Hort. prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic with a pH range of 6.0-6.5. The soil should be enriched with organic matter, which provides necessary nutrients and helps retain moisture. It also needs to be aerated, which can be achieved by mixing in coarse sand or perlite. The plant can grow in a variety of soil types, including loam, sand, and clay, as long as the soil is not waterlogged.
By following these growing conditions, Phalangium viviparum Hort. can thrive and produce beautiful and delicate flowers.
Cultivation methods
Phalangium viviparum Hort., also known as the viviparous spider, is relatively easy to cultivate. It is a tough, hardy plant that can adapt to various soil types and climatic conditions. It requires well-drained soil and a bright, sunny location to thrive. The plant can be propagated by division or by planting seeds in autumn or spring.
Watering needs
The plant prefers moderate watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases. It is crucial to allow the soil to dry out between watering sessions. The frequency of watering also depends on the plant's location and environmental conditions. During the winter months, the plant requires less water, while the frequency of watering may increase during hot summer months.
Fertilization
Fertilization needs vary according to the plant's growth stage. During the growing season, which is from spring to autumn, the plant requires regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer. Slow-release fertilizers are ideal for this plant. During the dormant season, which is winter, reduce the frequency of fertilization considerably.
Pruning
Phalangium viviparum Hort. requires little pruning. Only remove damaged or yellowing leaves to keep the plant in good shape. After flowering, remove any dead flower stalks. This pruning ensures the plant's energy is channeled into producing new leaves and flowers the following season.
Propagation of Phalangium viviparum Hort.
Phalangium viviparum Hort. is propagated through sexual and asexual methods.
Sexual Propagation
Seeds are the primary means of sexual propagation for Phalangium viviparum Hort. The seeds must be sown in the spring immediately after harvesting. The germination process is slow, and the seeds require warm temperatures and a humid environment to grow successfully.
Asexual Propagation
Phalangium viviparum Hort. can be propagated asexually through division and offsets. Division involves separating the plant into smaller sections, ensuring that each section has its rhizome and roots. Offsets, on the other hand, are small plantlets that form from the mother plant. These can be removed and potted up individually to grow into a new plant.
Asexual propagation should be carried out in the spring when the plant is actively growing. Ensure that the divisions or offsets are planted at the same depth as the mother plant. Potting soil that is low in nutrients and well-draining should be used. Provide the plant with indirect sunlight and maintain a humid environment until new growth appears.
Disease and Pest Management for Phalangium viviparum Hort.
Phalangium viviparum Hort. is a low maintenance plant that is relatively disease and pest resistant. However, it can still be susceptible to certain diseases and pests, especially if the growing conditions are not optimal. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Diseases
Leaf spot: This is a fungal disease that causes small, brown spots on the leaves. To manage it, remove infected leaves and improve air circulation around the plant. Fungicide sprays can also be used.
Rust: This is a fungal disease that causes orange or brown rust-like spots on the leaves. To manage it, remove infected leaves and improve air circulation around the plant. Fungicide sprays can also be used.
Root rot: This is a fungal disease that causes the roots to rot and can eventually kill the plant. To manage it, make sure the soil is well-draining and not waterlogged. Avoid overwatering and remove any infected roots.
Pests
Aphids: These are small insects that suck the sap from the plant and can cause stunted growth. To manage them, use insecticidal soaps or neem oil. Ladybugs and lacewings are also natural predators of aphids.
Spider mites: These are tiny pests that feed on the plant's sap and can cause discoloration and webbing on the leaves. To manage them, spray the plant with a strong jet of water to knock them off. Insecticidal soaps or neem oil can also be used.
Mealybugs: These are small, white insects that feed on the plant's sap and can cause wilting and stunted growth. To manage them, use insecticidal soaps or neem oil. Ladybugs and lacewings are also natural predators of mealybugs.
