Origin
Asplenium ×trudellii Wherry (pro sp.) is a hybrid fern that is believed to be a cross between Asplenium platyneuron (ebony spleenwort) and Asplenium montanum (mountain spleenwort). The fern was first discovered in Warren County, Virginia, USA, by Thomas G. Lammers and Richard S. Mitchell in 1965. Its specific epithet, "trudellii," is named after John A. Trudell, an American botanist who contributed significantly to the study of ferns in the United States.
Common Names
Asplenium ×trudellii is commonly known as Trudy's spleenwort. The fern is also sometimes referred to as Trudell's spleenwort or Trudell's ebony spleenwort in honor of the person after whom it is named.
Uses
Asplenium ×trudellii is primarily used as an ornamental plant in rock gardens or as a ground cover. The fern's dark green, glossy fronds and compact growth habit make it an attractive addition to any garden. The fern is also used for conserving and promoting biodiversity as it is a rare species.
Appearance
Asplenium ×trudellii is a small-sized fern that typically grows up to 15 cm in height and 60 cm in width. The plant has a compact growth habit and produces a rosette of evergreen, glossy, lance-shaped fronds that are borne on wiry stems. The fronds are typically 10-15 cm long and 1-3 cm wide and have a dark green color. Asplenium ×trudellii produces spores that are borne on the underside of the fronds in linear sori that are covered by a brown, membranous indusium.
Light Requirements
The Asplenium ×trudellii plant thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. It is imperative to avoid exposing the plant to direct sunlight as it can cause the leaves to burn and dry out. A filtered light source is best for this type of plant.
Temperature Requirements
The Asplenium ×trudellii plant prefers to grow in a moderately warm temperature that ranges from 60-75°F (15.5-24°C). These plants are not frost-tolerant, and so any temperatures below 55°F (12.5°C) can be fatal to the plant. These ferns tend to enjoy humid environments, and so if the air indoors is dry, it may be necessary to mist the leaves regularly.
Soil Requirements
Asplenium ×trudellii plants grow best in a soil mixture that is well-draining and rich in organic matter. It is essential to ensure that the soil is kept moist but not waterlogged. A pot with adequate drainage holes will ensure excess water is drained away. Adding a layer of mulch to the surface of the soil will help retain moisture and enrich the soil with nutrients.
Cultivation
The Asplenium ×trudellii Wherry (pro sp.) plant is a hybrid fern species that requires proper cultivation to thrive. It is recommended to grow it indoors or in a greenhouse environment, with temperatures ranging between 60 to 75°F (15 to 24°C).
The fern prefers a well-draining peat-based mix, enriched with perlite, for optimal growth. It also requires acidic conditions, with a soil pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid alkaline soil environments that can inhibit its development.
Watering Needs
Proper watering is essential for the healthy growth of the Asplenium ×trudellii Wherry (pro sp.) fern. As a general rule, the soil should be kept uniformly moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause the fronds to wilt and dry out.
A good watering schedule involves checking the plant's soil moisture content regularly and adjusting the watering frequency accordingly. For instance, during the active growth period, the fern may require more frequent watering, while during dormancy, watering frequency can be less.
Fertilization
Fertilization is crucial for the Asplenium ×trudellii Wherry (pro sp.) fern, as it provides essential nutrients necessary for healthy growth. The plant requires frequent feeding, usually every two weeks, during the growing season, using a balanced water-soluble fertilizer.
It is advisable to apply the fertilizer mix lightly, following the manufacturer's instructions, to avoid over-fertilization. Over-fertilization can lead to salt accumulation in the soil, causing root burn, and potentially killing the fern.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to keep the Asplenium ×trudellii Wherry (pro sp.) fern healthy and vibrant. Regular pruning of brown or yellowed fronds helps create more space and allows the fern to produce new growth. It is recommended to remove dead or damaged fronds close to the crown to avoid pests or diseases from spreading.
To prune, gently hold the frond base and cut it near the soil line using sharp and clean scissors. It is vital to avoid cutting healthy fronds or removing too many fronds at once, as it may cause stress and affect the fern's growth.
Propagation of Asplenium ×trudellii Wherry
Asplenium ×trudellii Wherry can be propagated through spores or division.
Propagating through spores
The spores of Asplenium ×trudellii Wherry can be collected when mature. Mature fronds are harvested and placed in a brown paper bag to allow the spores to dry and release from the plant. Once the spores have been collected, they can be sown onto a mixture of peat moss and perlite. The spores are then covered lightly with the same mixture and kept in a warm and humid environment. The soil must be kept moist, and the spores should germinate in several weeks. The resulting plants can be transplanted into individual pots once they have developed several fronds.
Propagating through division
Asplenium ×trudellii Wherry can also be propagated through division. It involves carefully separating the rhizome or root system into sections and replanting each section. This method is best done when the plant is actively growing. First, the plant is removed from its container, and the root system is loosened. The rhizome is then split into several sections, each with leaves and roots. The divided plants can be potted separately and watered thoroughly. These plants may need some time to recover and establish in their new environment.
Disease and Pest Management for Asplenium ×trudellii Wherry (pro sp.)
Asplenium ×trudellii Wherry (pro sp.), commonly known as Trudell's spleenwort, is a hybrid fern that is susceptible to various diseases and pests. Proper disease and pest management is crucial to ensure the plant's health and vitality. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and the ways to manage them:
Diseases
1. Leaf spot: Leaf spots are circular or irregularly shaped lesions that appear on the leaves of the plant. They are caused by various fungi and bacteria and can lead to the yellowing and defoliation of leaves. To manage leaf spot, remove and destroy infected leaves, improve air circulation around the plant, and avoid overhead watering. Apply fungicides containing copper or sulfur if necessary.
2. Rust: Rust is a fungal disease that causes orange-brown pustules to appear on the undersides of the leaves. Rust can weaken the plant, cause defoliation and reduce the aesthetic appeal of the plant. To manage rust, remove and destroy infected leaves and avoid overhead watering. Apply fungicides containing neem oil or azoxystrobin.
3. Rhizome rot: Rhizome rot is a fungal disease that affects the plant's underground stem and roots. The disease causes decay and wilting of leaves, stunted growth and eventually plant death. To manage rhizome rot, remove infected plants and avoid overwatering. Apply fungicides containing copper oxychloride or thiophanate-methyl.
Pests
1. Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, white insects that can infest the fern's leaves and roots. They feed on the plant sap and secrete a sticky substance that attracts other pests and can cause fungal infections. To manage mealybugs, remove and destroy infested plant parts and apply insecticides containing imidacloprid or pyrethrin.
2. Scale insects: Scale insects are small insects that attach themselves to the plant's leaves and stems. They feed on the plant's sap and produce a sticky residue that can attract fungal infections. To manage scale insects, remove and destroy infected plant parts and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
3. Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny insects that can infest the plant's leaves and cause yellowing, stippling, and webbing. To manage spider mites, improve humidity levels around the plant, remove and destroy infested plant parts, and apply insecticides containing neem oil or spinosad.
By following these disease and pest management tips, you can ensure that your Asplenium ×trudellii Wherry (pro sp.) remains healthy, vibrant and attractive. Regularly monitor your fern for any signs of disease or pest infestation and take prompt action to manage them.
