Pyrrosia

Family. Polypodiaceae.

Origin. Asia.

Description. The genus Pyrrosia consists of approximately 50 species of perennial evergreen ferns. The rhizome is creeping, covered with oblong brown scales. Petioles are 6 - 15 cm long, covered with sparse pubescence. The shape and size of the leaves depend on the specific species. The leaf blades can be long - up to 20 cm, belt-shaped, with slightly wavy smooth edges, or have a carved edge. Most notable is pyrrosia longpetiolate, which has long leaves with beautifully dissected tips. Oval sporangia are located on the lower or upper side of the leaves. In some species, the underside of the leaf blade is painted in contrasting shades.

Height. 10 - 30 cm.

Care at home

Temperature conditions

The ideal temperature during the growing period is 21°C. In winter, do not expose the plant to temperatures below 13°C.

Lighting

Grows well in partial shade and does not tolerate direct sun.   

Care

Trim off old, wilted leaves. 

Substrate

The soil should be light and porous. A mixture of peat, fern fibers and finely chopped sphagnum moss and leaf humus is suitable. Add to this a small amount of crushed charcoal, which will prevent the soil from acidifying. The substrate must have a pH of at least 7.0.

Feeding

Feed monthly with liquid fertilizers with a high nitrogen content. You can apply foliar feeding by spraying a nutrient solution on the leaves.

Purpose

Pyrrosia looks great in hanging baskets, sometimes its rhizomes protrude from the drainage holes of the pot and it acquires additional charm.

Flowering time

Doesn't bloom. 

Air humidity

This fern should be sprayed from time to time or placed on a tray of damp pebbles. Loves frequently ventilated areas with constant air flow.

Soil moisture

In spring and summer, water abundantly until the soil is completely soaked. Before each watering, dry the soil to a depth of about 3 - 5 cm. During the dormant period, water even less often. It is very useful to periodically immerse the plant pot in a large container of water at room temperature for a few minutes. 

Transfer

In the spring, every 2 - 3 years in fresh soil.

Reproduction

Large adult ferns are divided into parts when transplanting. In spring, spores are sown on the surface of the ground. Reproduction by spores takes a long time, since pyrrosia grows slowly.

Pests and diseases

Leaves wither and fall off due to lack of moisture. Root rot occurs when there is insufficient drainage. Direct sunlight hitting the leaves can cause sunburn. Leaf spotting sometimes occurs. 

Of the harmful insects, the main danger may be scale insects, spider mites, thrips, and mealybugs.  

Note

This fern can live for a very long time in indoor culture without any particular difficulties.