Plant Description
Polypodium thyssanolepis A. Braun ex Klotzsch var. riograndense T. Wendt, commonly known as Rio Grande polypody, is a species of fern found in Brazil. It is part of the Polypodiaceae family and typically grows in the wild in rocky areas or near waterfalls. The plant is characterized by its delicate fronds that are light green in color and shaped like an elongated triangle. These fronds grow up to 70 cm long and 10 cm wide. The plants are usually fairly small, reaching heights of only about 20 cm.
Common Names
In addition to Rio Grande polypody, this fern species also goes by a handful of other common names in Portuguese, including:
- Samambaiinha
- Cabelinho-de-anjo
- Cabeludo
- Tapete-de-são-josé
Uses
Polypodium thyssanolepis A. Braun ex Klotzsch var. riograndense T. Wendt is used in traditional medicine to treat a wide range of ailments. It is believed to have antifungal, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties, making it a popular treatment for skin infections, wounds, and pain. It has also been used to treat respiratory problems, such as asthma and bronchitis. In addition to its medicinal uses, this fern is sometimes cultivated for its ornamental value. Its delicate fronds make a beautiful addition to shaded gardens or indoor plant displays.
Light Requirements
Polypodium thyssanolepis A. Braun ex Klotzsch var. riograndense T. Wendt thrives in areas with sufficient but filtered sunlight. It needs enough light for photosynthesis, but direct sunlight can cause leaf burn. It is ideal to put the plant in a shaded area. A light intensity of 1000-2000 foot-candles is desirable for the plant to grow healthily.
Temperature Needs
The optimal temperature for Polypodium thyssanolepis A. Braun ex Klotzsch var. riograndense T. Wendt growth ranges from 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (15 to 24 degrees Celsius). It prefers a warm temperature but can tolerate cooler temperatures. The minimum temperature the plant can tolerate is 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius). Extreme temperatures may cause the plant to wither.
Soil Requirements
Polypodium thyssanolepis A. Braun ex Klotzsch var. riograndense T. Wendt prefers well-draining soil. The soil must have a pH of 5.5 to 7.0, which is slightly acidic to neutral. The soil must be moist and not waterlogged since the plant does not tolerate standing water. A good mix of compost or organic matter is essential to provide the plant with the necessary nutrients to grow healthy and strong.
Cultivation of Polypodium thyssanolepis A. Braun ex Klotzsch var. riograndense T. Wendt
Polypodium thyssanolepis is commonly named Rock Polypody. It is a type of fern that grows in rocky crevices, cracks, and other similar habitats, such as walls, slopes, or rocky outcrops. As a result, proper cultivation requires emulating its natural habitat and growing Polypodium thyssanolepis in suitable conditions.
First, you will want to provide a suitable potting mix consisting of coarse sand, peat, and leaf mold, or another similar mix. Avoid overcrowding your bedding plant with other vegetation, as this can harm its growth. In addition, maintaining a humid atmosphere can be beneficial, so when growing indoors, mist the fern's foliage
Watering Needs of Polypodium thyssanolepis
The watering needs of Polypodium thyssanolepis vary substantially with seasonal changes. Polypodium thyssanolepis grown in crevices and cracks in rocks prefer a minimal amount of water, usually providing themselves through rain and humidity. Similarly, when growing Polypodium thyssanolepis indoors, avoid over-watering the fern. Overwatering can lead to root rotting; thus, it is best to let the soil almost dry between waterings. However, in the scorching summer months, water the fern regularly enough to keep the soil moist.
Fertilization of Polypodium thyssanolepis
While Polypodium thyssanolepis prefers minimal nutrients and thrives in infertile soils, fertilizing your fern occasionally during the growing season can accelerate vegetative growth. Applying a balanced fertilizer with a 20-20-20 ratio monthly or bi-weekly basis when plants are actively growing can help achieve optimal growth.
Pruning Polypodium thyssanolepis
While pruning is not necessary for Polypodium thyssanolepis, it is beneficial to remove any yellowing or damaged fronds from time to time. This should be done regularly in the summer months as Polypodium thyssanolepis can revitalize new growths, and dead fronds can harbor pests and other plant diseases.
Therefore, ensure that the plant is kept free of any fronds that may appear brown, crisp, or black at the edges. Polypodium thyssanolepis typically rejuvenates from its rhizomes each spring, making it easier to remove any dead fronds and provide sufficient ventilation to promote lush and healthy growth.
Propagation of Polypodium thyssanolepis A. Braun ex Klotzsch var. riograndense T. Wendt
Polypodium thyssanolepis A. Braun ex Klotzsch var. riograndense T. Wendt, also known as the Rio Grande polypody, is best propagated through spores or division.
Propagation by Spores
Spore propagation is the most popular method of multiplying Polypodium thyssanolepis A. Braun ex Klotzsch var. riograndense T. Wendt. The spores are produced in capsules that develop under the fronds' surface. When ripe, it appears like brown powder, and it needs to be collected. The spores can then be propagated in a potting mixture, a humid atmosphere, and sufficient lighting.
To propagate using spores:
- Collect spores when the capsules open.
- Fill a shallow tray or pot with equal parts of peat moss, loam, and sand.
- Sprinkle the spores on top of the soil mixture.
- Spray the surface with water or use a mister to keep it moist.
- Cover the tray or pot with plastic wrap or a clear plastic lid to create a humid environment.
- Place it in indirect or filtered light and maintain a temperature of 68 to 77°F (20 to 25°C).
- Wait for about 1 to 3 months for the spores to develop into small plants.
- Transplant the small plants when they show three to five leaves.
Propagation by Division
Division propagation can also be done with Polypodium thyssanolepis A. Braun ex Klotzsch var. riograndense T. Wendt. This method is suitable for mature plants and can be done every 2 to 3 years. It is best done in spring or early summer.
To propagate using division:
- Dig up the mature plant and shake off the excess soil.
- Separate the rhizome into sections, ensuring each section has roots and shoots.
- Trim back the leaves to one-third of their length to reduce stress.
- Plant each section in a separate container or directly into the ground at the same depth as it was before.
- Water it well and place it in a shaded area for about 2 to 3 weeks.
- Gradually move it to a brighter area once the new growth appears.
Propagation by division produces identical clones of the parent plant and maintains the same characteristics for the offspring.
Disease Management
Polypodium thyssanolepis A. Braun ex Klotzsch var. riograndense T. Wendt is prone to diseases that can weaken or kill the plant if left untreated. Some common diseases that might affect the plant include:
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes yellow or brown spots on the leaves and can spread quickly if left untreated. Remove infected leaves and treat the plant with a fungicide spray.
- Root rot: This fungal disease affects the roots and can cause wilting and yellowing of leaves. Overwatering and poorly-drained soil can contribute to the development of root rot. To manage root rot, remove infected roots and replant the plant in fresh, well-draining soil.
- Virus: Viruses that affect ferns can cause discolored or distorted leaves and stunted growth. Unfortunately, there is no cure for viral infections. To prevent the spread of viruses, remove infected plants and disinfect gardening tools between uses.
Pest Management
In addition to diseases, Polypodium thyssanolepis A. Braun ex Klotzsch var. riograndense T. Wendt can also be affected by pests. Some common pests that might affect the plant include:
- Spider mites: These tiny insects suck sap from the leaves and can cause yellowing and wilting. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a mixture of water and dish soap, making sure to cover the undersides of the leaves.
- Scale insects: These pests appear as small, raised bumps on the leaves and stems. They feed on the plant's sap and can cause yellowing and wilting. To manage scale insects, remove them from the plant with a soft brush and treat the plant with a systemic insecticide.
- Mealybugs: These insects look like small clumps of cotton and can cause yellowing and wilting of leaves. To manage mealybugs, remove them from the plant with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
Regularly inspecting your Polypodium thyssanolepis A. Braun ex Klotzsch var. riograndense T. Wendt plant and taking prompt action at the first sign of disease or pest infestation is the key to maintaining a healthy and thriving plant.
