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sickle speenwort
Scientific Name: Asplenium polyodon
Family: Aspleniaceae
Category: Fern
Growth: Forb/herb
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Asplenium polyodon: The Sickle Spleenwort
Asplenium polyodon, commonly known as sickle spleenwort, is an attractive fern species that often graces gardens and natural environments. It belongs to the family Aspleniaceae and is admired for its glossy green fronds.
Considerations for Pets
- This fern is often found growing from tree trunks and logs, sometimes within reach of curious pets.
Considerations for Children
- The plant can grow on the ground, potentially making it accessible to children.
Nomenclature and Taxonomy
- Scientific Name: Asplenium polyodon G.Forst.
- Common Names: Sickle Spleenwort, Mare's-tail Fern, Weeping Spleenwort, Petako, Peretao
- Family: Aspleniaceae (Spleenwort Family)
- Synonyms: Asplenium falcatum Lam.
Distribution and Habitat
- Asplenium polyodon is found growing naturally in clumps on the trunks of large forest trees, particularly in the north. It also grows on the ground, particularly in the south.
- It is native to the Cook Islands and New Zealand (NZ).
Morphological Characteristics
- It is an evergreen fern or epiphyte.
- The fronds typically range from 15-100 cm in length and 7-25 cm in width.
- The leaflets (pinnae) have deeply toothed edges.
- It is known for its shiny dark green leaves.
Growth Habits
- It can be found hanging from tree trunks or old logs.
- It thrives in warm, low sun to dappled light conditions.
- Prefers constantly moist soil, such as orchid compost.
- Hardiness zones: 10-13
Associations
- It can grow in association with other ferns such as Asplenium flaccidum (drooping spleenwort).
- The "sickle spleenwort whitefly" has been found on this species.
Quirky Facts
- In New Zealand, it is sometimes called "Petako".
- It can be found growing on fallen trees within gardens.