Origin and Common Names
×Asplenosorus gravesii (Maxon) Mickel, commonly known as Graves' spleenwort, is a hybrid fern species that belongs to the Aspleniaceae family. It is a cross between two other fern species, Asplenium serratum and Asplenium platyneuron. This plant can be found in the eastern United States, from Florida to Virginia and west to Texas and Missouri.
General Appearance
The Graves' spleenwort is a small, evergreen fern that can grow up to 2 feet in length. This plant has an erect frond habit and an elongated shape with tapering tips. The frond is typically dark green, leathery to the touch, and shiny. The leaflets are narrow, oblong, and have a wavy edge with a few teeth.
The Graves' spleenwort is a diploid, meaning it has two sets of chromosomes in its cells, which distinguishes it from other hybrids.
Uses
The Graves' spleenwort is often used as an ornamental plant as it is a visually appealing fern with a unique leaf shape. It can be planted in shady gardens, rock gardens, or naturalistic settings. This plant is also known for its ability to tolerate poor soil conditions and can even grow in cracks of rocks or walls.
Historically, spleenworts have been used for medicinal purposes to aid in digestion and as a cleanse for the spleen. However, there is limited modern research on the medical benefits of the Graves' spleenwort. It is important to note that any medical use should only be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Light Requirements
×Asplenosorus gravesii prefers bright but indirect light, making it a great choice for indoor environments, such as a north-facing windowsill. Direct sun can scorch the leaves, so keeping it in a shaded area is important. It is also important to rotate the plant frequently to ensure even growth and exposure to sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
×Asplenosorus gravesii prefers average room temperatures between 60-75°F (16-24°C). It is important to keep the plant away from drafty windows or doors as it may negatively affect its growth. The plant can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures in the winter, but not below 50°F (10°C).
Soil Requirements
×Asplenosorus gravesii prefers a well-draining, nutrient-rich soil mixture. A good mixture might be 1 part peat moss to 1 part coarse sand or perlite. It is also important to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Ensure that the pot has adequate drainage holes to prevent overwatering and root rot.
Cultivation of ×Asplenosorus gravesii (Maxon) Mickel
×Asplenosorus gravesii (Maxon) Mickel is a hybrid fern created by crossing Asplenium platyneuron and Polystichum acrostichoides. Proper cultivation of this fern requires mimicking its natural habitat, which is deciduous woodlands, shaded areas, or even rock crevices.
Watering needs of ×Asplenosorus gravesii (Maxon) Mickel
The watering needs of ×Asplenosorus gravesii (Maxon) Mickel are similar to other fern varieties. It requires constant moisture but not overwatering. Therefore, water your fern when the top inch of the soil is dry. Ensure the soil drains well to avoid waterlogging.
Fertilization of ×Asplenosorus gravesii (Maxon) Mickel
Use organic fertilizers during the growing season to fertilize your ×Asplenosorus gravesii (Maxon) Mickel. The ideal growing fertilizer for ferns has high nitrogen content. Mix the fertilizer with the potting soil at half strength to ensure the fern receives a sufficient amount of nutrients.
Pruning ×Asplenosorus gravesii (Maxon) Mickel
Pruning ×Asplenosorus gravesii (Maxon) Mickel is not necessary unless you notice some dead fronds. Use sharp and sterilized pruning shears to minimize harm to the plant and prevent the spread of plant diseases. Remove the dead fronds by cutting them at the base of the plant. The fronds will grow back once damaged ones are removed.
Propagation of ×Asplenosorus Gravesii
There are several ways to propagate ×Asplenosorus gravesii, also known as the spiny spleenwort. This plant is a hybrid cross between Asplenium serratum and Dryopteris ludoviciana.
Division
One common method of propagating spiny spleenwort is through division. Divide the plant into smaller sections in the early spring before new growth emerges.
Use a sharp, sterile knife or pruning shears to separate the root ball into several sections. Each section should have several healthy fronds and a healthy root system.
Plant the divisions in a moist, well-draining potting mix and keep the soil consistently moist until new growth appears.
Spores
Spiny spleenwort also reproduces through spores. The spores are produced on the undersides of the fronds in small, capsule-like structures.
When the spores are mature, they can be collected and sown in a container with a moist, well-draining potting mix. Cover the container with plastic wrap to keep the soil moist and provide humidity.
Place the container in a bright, indirect light and wait for the spores to germinate into small, green gametophytes. Once the gametophytes are established, they can be transplanted into individual pots and grown until they mature into adult ferns.
Offsets
A third method of propagating spiny spleenwort is through offsets. Offsets are small plantlets that form on the fronds or the base of the plant.
Carefully remove the offsets from the parent plant with a sharp, sterile knife or pruning shears.
Plant the offsets in a moist, well-draining potting mix and keep the soil consistently moist until new growth appears.
With proper care and the right growing conditions, all three propagation methods can be successful in producing healthy, mature spiny spleenwort plants.
Disease and Pest Management for ×Asplenosorus gravesii
Despite its hardiness, ×Asplenosorus gravesii (Maxon) Mickel is susceptible to a few common diseases and pests that can cause damage or even death in severe cases. As such, it is essential to be familiar with the common issues and know how to manage them effectively.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect ×Asplenosorus gravesii is anthracnose, which can cause lesions on the fern's foliage. Other fungal infections, such as leaf spots and rust, can also cause discoloration and damage to the fronds. To prevent the spread of these diseases, it is essential to monitor the plant carefully and remove any infected fronds. Ensure that you are using a clean and sterile pruning tool to prevent the spread of the disease to other parts of the plant.
Pest Management
Spider mites and scale insects are common pests that can infest ×Asplenosorus gravesii. These pests feed on the plant's sap and can result in damage to the fronds. To get rid of these pests, use a solution of insecticidal soap or neem oil sprayed directly on the plant's foliage. Be sure to inspect the plant regularly to detect early any sign of pest infestation and apply the treatment promptly.
Finally, maintaining excellent growing conditions for ×Asplenosorus gravesii is crucial for preventing disease and pest problems. Ensure that the plant is not overwatered, and maintain good drainage to prevent the growth of fungi that can cause diseases. By implementing measures to prevent and manage the plant's common diseases and pests, you can keep your ×Asplenosorus gravesii healthy and attractive for years to come.
