Origin
Polypodium vulgare L. ssp. occidentale (Hook.) Hultén, also known as the Western Polypody Fern, is a native plant found in various regions including North America, Europe, and Asia. It grows in rocky and shaded areas including cliffs, rocky crevices, and mountain slopes.
Common Names
The Western Polypody Fern goes by several names regionally, including Licorice Fern, Coarse-rooted Polypody, Alaska Polypody, and simply Western Polypody.
Uses
Indigenous communities in North America have traditionally used the Western Polypody Fern for its medicinal properties. The plant was used to treat various ailments including respiratory and digestive problems, skin diseases, and diarrhea. Additionally, the Western Polypody Fern can be used for decorative purposes in landscaping projects and in floral arrangements.
General Appearance
The Western Polypody Fern is a perennial plant with an average height of 20-40 inches. It has long, broad fronds that are glossy green in color with a leathery texture. The roots are thick and course, often leading to the plant’s alternative name of Coarse-rooted Polypody. In the springtime, the plant produces spores that are housed on the undersides of the fronds.
Light Requirements
Polypodium vulgare L. ssp. occidentale (Hook.) Hultén prefers to grow in partially shaded areas rather than direct sunlight. This plant can tolerate some amount of sunlight, but direct exposure for extended periods can cause damage to the leaves.
Temperature Requirements
Polypodium vulgare L. ssp. occidentale (Hook.) Hultén is hardy to USDA zones 2-8 and can withstand a wide range of temperatures. However, this plant prefers a cooler and moist environment, and therefore grows well in areas with average temperatures ranging between 15-22°C (59-72°F).
Soil Requirements
Polypodium vulgare L. ssp. occidentale (Hook.) Hultén prefers well-drained, moist, and slightly acidic soils. This plant can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and rocky soils. However, it grows best in soils that are rich in organic matter and have a pH level between 5.5-7.5.
Cultivation
The Polypodium vulgare L. ssp. occidentale (Hook.) Hultén plant grows best in filtered sunlight or partial shade. It is important to provide sufficient humidity and good air circulation around the plant. It can be grown in well-draining soil or in a pot with a mix of peat moss and perlite or coarse sand.
Watering Needs
The plant requires consistent and moderate watering. The roots must never be left to stand in water, but the soil should be kept moist and not allowed to dry out completely.
Fertilization
Fertilization should take place annually in the early spring. A balanced fertilizer with equal parts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is ideal for this plant. You can also fertilize it in the middle of the growing season as long as you do not over-fertilize.
Pruning
Pruning is not mandatory for polypodium vulgare L. ssp. occidentale, but it can make the plant look more attractive. Prune your plant in the late winter or early spring before the new growth starts. Remove the dead or broken fronds and trim the tips of the healthy ones.
Propagation of Polypodium vulgare L. ssp. occidentale (Hook.) Hultén
Polypodium vulgare L. ssp. occidentale (Hook.) Hultén, commonly known as the Western Polypody, can be propagated through various methods.
Spores
One method of propagating Polypodium vulgare L. ssp. occidentale is through spores. Spores can be collected from mature fronds and sown onto a suitable substrate, such as a mixture of peat and sand, or sphagnum moss. The substrate should be kept moist and placed in a warm, shady location. It can take several months for the spores to germinate and for small fronds to develop.
Division
Another method of propagating Polypodium vulgare L. ssp. occidentale is by division. This method involves separating mature plants into smaller sections, each with its own root system. Spring is the best time to divide the plants. Dig up the plant and gently separate the rhizomes into clumps of a suitable size. Replant the clumps at the same depth they were previously growing, water them in well, and keep them moist until new growth appears.
Cuttings
Polypodium vulgare L. ssp. occidentale can also be propagated through cuttings. This method involves taking small sections of rhizomes with a few fronds attached and planting them in a suitable substrate. Keep the cuttings moist and in a shaded location until new growth appears.
Regardless of the propagation method used, it is important to keep the substrate moist and in a shaded location until new growth appears. Once new growth has appeared, gradually increase the light exposure to acclimate the plant to brighter conditions.
Disease Management
Polypodium vulgare L. ssp. occidentale (Hook.) Hultén is not known to be affected by any serious diseases. However, in certain situations, the plant may develop leaf spots or fungal diseases. It is essential to identify the disease properly before taking any corrective measures. Cultural practices such as planting in well-drained soil, avoiding overhead irrigation, and maintaining appropriate spacing between plants can help prevent diseases from occurring.
If fungal or bacterial disease is suspected, the infected plant parts should be removed immediately and disposed of properly. Applying fungicides may also help manage the disease. Treatment with copper-based fungicides, potassium bicarbonate, or neem oil can prevent the spread of fungal diseases.
Pest Management
Polypodium vulgare L. ssp. occidentale (Hook.) Hultén is relatively resistant to insect pests. However, a few insects can affect the plant's health and reduce its yield. The most common pests that affect the plant are spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects.
If pest infestation is suspected, it is essential to identify the pest before taking any management measures. Cultural practices such as keeping the plant clean, watering properly, and removing weeds can help prevent pest infestations. Additionally, applying insecticidal soaps or neem oil can manage mealybugs and scale insects. For spider mites, spraying with water or applying insecticidal soap can help reduce their numbers.
It is always advisable to follow the pesticide label instructions and safety precautions when using pesticides. Overuse or misuse of pesticides can harm beneficial insects, pollinators, and the environment.
