Origin
Pleopeltis polypodioides (L.) Andrews & Windham, commonly known as “resurrection fern,” belongs to the family Polypodiaceae and is native to the southeastern United States, Mexico, Central America, South America, and the Caribbean.
Common Names
Resurrection fern is the most common name for Pleopeltis polypodioides. It is also known as “miraculous fern” and “elkhorn fern.”
Uses
Pleopeltis polypodioides is mainly used for ornamental purposes and has no significant economic value. The fern is commonly used as an indoor plant and in landscaping projects due to its ability to grow on trees and other surfaces. Additionally, the resurrection fern is sometimes used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties.
General Appearance
Pleopeltis polypodioides is a small fern that grows in clumps or masses. Unlike most ferns, it grows on the surface of trees and rocks instead of in the soil. The fern has long fronds that turn brown and dry out during periods of drought, but can “resurrect” and turn green again after a rainfall. The fern’s leaves are leathery, dark green, and have a slightly curved shape. They can grow up to 15 cm in length. The plant’s spores develop on the undersides of the fronds in sori that look like small, brown bumps.
Light Requirements
The Pleopeltis polypodioides plant prefers indirect or partially shaded sunlight. Exposing the plant to direct sunlight for long periods can cause irreversible damage to the leaves. Therefore, it is recommended to keep the plant in a shaded location, preferably near a window that blocks the direct sunlight. A north-facing window is ideal for this plant.
Temperature Requirements
The Pleopeltis polypodioides plant thrives in a warm and humid environment. The temperature requirements of the plant range between 60 – 80 degrees Fahrenheit (15.6 – 26.6 C). Temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 C) can stall the plant's growth and cause damage to the foliage. The plant should also be kept away from cold drafts and air conditioning vents.
Soil Requirements
The Pleopeltis polypodioides plant requires well-draining soil and a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH between 5.0 and 7.0. A high-quality potting mix can provide a suitable growth environment for the plant. The addition of peat moss or compost can increase the acidity levels and improve the fertility of the soil.
It is important to note that the Pleopeltis polypodioides plant requires consistent moisture levels. The soil should be kept evenly moist throughout the growth period, but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while under-watering can cause dehydration and stunted growth.
Cultivation methods
Pleopeltis polypodioides, commonly known as the Resurrection Fern, is a type of epiphytic fern that can be found throughout the southeastern United States, Central, and South America. To cultivate it, you will need a well-draining growing medium as this fern typically grows on trees, rocks or other plants rather than in soil. You can mix peat moss, perlite, and sand in a 1:1:1 ratio for the best growing medium for the Resurrection Fern.
One useful tip for cultivating the Resurrection Fern is to grow it on a porous material such as cork bark, driftwood, or a tree-fern slab. This provides a suitable substrate for it to anchor and grow.
Watering needs
The Resurrection Fern prefers to be kept moist but not soggy. It is essential to water it consistently, at least once a week. Water it gently, allowing the water to soak into the soil rather than pouring it over the plant. Be careful not to let the soil dry out too much as this can result in the plant's death.
If you are using a porous material for growing the Resurrection Fern, you can soak it in a tray of water for around ten minutes. Repeat this process once every 2-3 weeks to ensure that your plant receives adequate moisture.
Fertilization
The Resurrection Fern does not require much fertilizer. You can use a balanced fertilizer with a ratio of 20-20-20 during the growing season (spring and summer), applying it once a month. However, ensure that you follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging to avoid over-fertilization as it can be harmful to the ferns.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary for the Resurrection Fern to maintain a healthy and attractive appearance. You should remove any dead or discolored fronds periodically. If the plant looks too overcrowded, thin out some of the fronds to let light and air circulate. Remove any fronds that touch the soil to prevent rot and reduce the risk of pest infestation.
Propagation of Pleopeltis polypodioides (L.) Andrews & Windham
Pleopeltis polypodioides (L.) Andrews & Windham can be easily propagated through spores and division. These methods are simple, efficient, and produce healthy plants.
Propagation from Spores
Propagation through spores is the easiest and most common method for Pleopeltis polypodioides (L.) Andrews & Windham. The spores are readily available and can be collected easily. Here's how to propagate Pleopeltis polypodioides (L.) Andrews & Windham from spores:
- Collect mature fronds from a healthy parent plant and place them in a paper bag.
- Allow the fronds to dry in a cool, dark place until the spores are released.
- Spread the spores evenly on the surface of a prepared potting mix in a container.
- Cover the container with plastic wrap and maintain high humidity.
- Place the container in a warm, bright area but avoid direct sunlight.
- Keep the soil moist by misting regularly, and in a few weeks, small ferns will emerge.
- Once the ferns develop, transfer them to larger pots or to their final growing location.
Propagation by Division
Propagation by division is another effective method for Pleopeltis polypodioides (L.) Andrews & Windham. The procedure is as follow:
- Prepare a potting mix that is well-draining but retains moisture.
- Carefully remove the parent plant from its current container, being careful not to damage the roots.
- Divide the parent plant into two or more sections, making sure each section has healthy roots and leaves.
- Plant each divided section in a separate container with new potting soil.
- Keep the newly divided plants in a warm, bright location but avoid direct sunlight.
- Water the newly divided plants regularly, ensuring that the soil is evenly moist.
- Watch the plant grow and develop a healthy root system. When it is time, transfer the plant to a permanent pot or into an outside location.
Disease Management
Pleopeltis polypodioides is generally a hardy plant, but it is susceptible to certain diseases. One common disease that affects this plant is leaf spot caused by the fungus Cercospora. This disease can cause the leaves to have brown or black spots and eventually die off. To manage this disease, it is important to remove any affected leaves and prune the plant to increase air circulation. Fungicides can also be applied, particularly ones containing copper or sulfur, but it is generally best to avoid chemical treatments.
Another disease that can affect P. polypodioides is root rot caused by excessive moisture and poor drainage. It is important to make sure that the plant is not sitting in standing water and that the soil is well-draining. If root rot is suspected, the plant should be removed from the soil, the roots should be carefully inspected, and any affected roots should be trimmed off. The plant should then be repotted in fresh soil.
Pest Management
Pleopeltis polypodioides is generally not prone to many pests, but there are a few to watch out for. One common pest is the spider mite. These tiny pests can cause the leaves to become stippled and discolored. To manage spider mites, it is important to keep the plant well-watered and to wipe down the leaves with a damp cloth to remove any pests. In severe cases, insecticidal soap or neem oil can be used, but it is important to avoid using these products excessively.
Another pest that can affect P. polypodioides is scale. These insects can be difficult to spot as they are small and often blend in with the plant. They can cause the leaves to become sticky and may even lead to the development of sooty mold. To manage scale, it is important to inspect the plant regularly and use a soft brush or cloth to gently remove any pests. In severe cases, insecticidal soap or neem oil can be used.
