Origin
Woodsia oregana D.C. Eat. var. cathcartiana (B.L. Robins.) Morton, commonly known as Cathcart's cliff fern, is an evergreen plant species from the Polypodiaceae family. It is native to Western North America, specifically found in the coastal ranges of California and Oregon.
Common Names
Besides Cathcart's cliff fern, Woodsia oregana D.C. Eat. var. cathcartiana (B.L. Robins.) Morton is also commonly referred to as Oregon cliff fern or Oregon woodsia.
Appearance
Cathcart's cliff fern has a distinct appearance, characterized by its bright green color and glossy texture. It is a small fern, growing up to 20 cm high and 30 cm wide. The leaves are blade-like, triangular in shape, and pinnate. The frond's axis is erect and stiff, and the pinnae are shiny green, with a slightly undulating margin. Cathcart's cliff fern produces spores on the underside of each pinna.
Uses
Woodsia oregana D.C. Eat. var. cathcartiana (B.L. Robins.) Morton is not commonly used in traditional medicine or cooking. However, like other ferns, it has potential for use in landscaping and ornamental gardening. Its unique texture and bright green color are a valuable addition to the shade garden, rock gardens, and mixed borders. It is a relatively low maintenance plant, thriving in well-drained soils and partial shade.
Light Requirements
Woodsia oregana var. cathcartiana grows best in partial or full shade environments, receiving dappled sunlight or only a few hours of direct morning sun. Exposure to hot, intense sunlight can damage the foliage and lead to drying out quickly.
Temperature Requirements
As a fern native to Pacific Northwest region of North America, Woodsia oregana var. cathcartiana prefers cooler temperatures typically found in montane and subalpine ecosystems, where summers are mild and temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C. It can survive frosts and occasional hard freezes, but temperatures below -15°C can cause extensive damage.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers moist, well-drained, humus-rich soils that are slightly acidic with a pH ranging from 5.5 to 6. Soil moisture is crucial for Woodsia oregana var. cathcartiana, and it must have consistently moist soil but not waterlogged. It can tolerate rocky, well-drained soils but won't grow well in sandy or dry soils. Organic matter and mulch applied to the soil surface help retain moisture and maintain soil fertility.
Cultivation of Woodsia oregana D.C. Eat. var. cathcartiana (B.L. Robins.) Morton
The Woodsia oregana D.C. Eat. var. cathcartiana (B.L. Robins.) Morton thrives in a shaded area with well-draining soil. The soil must be rich in organic matter and should never be waterlogged. Plant this fern in an area where there is excellent air circulation.
The fern can be propagated through dividing by its rootstalks. It is best to do this in the early spring, where new growth is starting to emerge. The root mass must have a few inches of soil around it during its division process.
Watering Needs
Woodsia oregana D.C. Eat. var. cathcartiana (B.L. Robins.) Morton requires constant moisture; however, it thrives best with well-drained soil. Water this fern deeply to make sure the roots receive enough moisture. The soil must not be allowed to dry out. Over-watering can cause the plant to rot. It is suggested to water twice a week, more when in hot temperatures.
Fertilization
This fern doesn't need fertilizer; however, if you want to add fertilizers, it must be used sparingly. Only fertilize during the growing season. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer can be applied monthly to provide the necessary nutrients.
Pruning
Woodsia oregana D.C. Eat. var. cathcartiana (B.L. Robins.) Morton doesn't need regular pruning. However, you can trim it back to its base when the leaves turn yellow during fall. The trimming is necessary and helps to prepare the plant for the winter months.
Propagation of Woodsia oregana D.C. Eat. var. cathcartiana (B.L. Robins.) Morton
Propagation of Woodsia oregana D.C. Eat. var. cathcartiana (B.L. Robins.) Morton can be done through spores or division of the rootstock.
Propagation by Spores
Spores are a reproductive method of ferns and are very different from seed propagation. Spores require a damp, warm environment for growth and can take a long time to develop, sometimes up to two years.
To propagate Woodsia oregana D.C. Eat. var. cathcartiana (B.L. Robins.) Morton through spores, first, collect the spores by cutting the fertile frond and keeping it in a paper bag to dry. Once the spores are dry, scatter them over a damp substrate such as moss or peat moss. Keep the spores in a warm place with low light until they start to grow. Once they have developed, transfer them into individual pots or containers.
Propagation by Division of the Rootstock
Propagation by division of the rootstock is a quicker method than spore propagation and can be done in spring or fall.
To propagate Woodsia oregana D.C. Eat. var. cathcartiana (B.L. Robins.) Morton through division of the rootstock, first, dig up the plant and shake off any excess soil. Then, gently separate the rootstock into clumps, each with a few fronds attached. Plant the clumps in individual pots or in appropriate outdoor locations.
Disease Management
Woodsia oregana D.C. Eat. var. cathcartiana (B.L. Robins.) Morton can be susceptible to various plant diseases that can cause damage to foliage and roots:
- Leaf spots: caused by the fungal pathogens of the Lophodermium and Ascochyta genera, often resulting in circular or irregularly-shaped lesions on the leaves. Remove the infected leaves and dispose of them properly to prevent the spread of the disease.
- Rust: caused by pathogenic fungi belonging to the Puccinia and Gymnosporangium genera, it appears as yellow, orange, or red powdery spots on the leaves. Remove the affected parts and destroy them to minimize the spread of the infection.
- Root rot: caused by soil-borne fungi and often manifests as wilting, yellowing, or stunted growth of the plant. Improving soil drainage and keeping the soil moist, not wet, can be helpful in preventing root rot.
Pest Management
Woodsia oregana D.C. Eat. var. cathcartiana (B.L. Robins.) Morton can also attract various pests, including:
- Aphids: sucking insects that can cause curled or distorted leaves. Spray the plant with a jet of water to knock off the aphids or use insecticidal soaps to treat severe infestations.
- Spider mites: tiny arachnids that can cause yellow or bronzed leaves. They thrive under dry and dusty conditions. Keeping the foliage clean and moist can help prevent spider mite infestation.
- Slugs and snails: can chew on the leaves and create large holes or completely defoliate the plant. Use bait stations or handpick them off the plant to control their population.
Early detection and treatment of diseases and pests are essential to prevent the damage and spread of the infection. Proper cultural practices like regular fertilization, adequate irrigation, and maintaining good soil health can also help make the plant less susceptible to diseases and pests.
