Robert's naked-stem shield fern
gymnocarpium robertianum
Also known as: ["Robert's shield fern","naked-stem shield fern"]
Overview
A delicate fern species with distinctive naked stems and pinnate fronds, native to temperate regions.
Benefits & Perks
["shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Polypodiopsida |
| Order: | Polypodiales |
| Family: | Dryopteridaceae |
| Genus: | Gymnocarpium |
| Botanical Name: | Gymnocarpium robertianum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: shaded rock gardens or woodland settings
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, humus-rich soil with added organic matter like peat moss or leaf litter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or yellowing fronds.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light; place in a spot with filtered light; move to shadier areas during peak summer.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct sun; rotate plant for even light exposure; adjust for seasonal light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; adjust based on season and growth phase.
Soil
moist, well-draining, humus-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; use organic amendments; maintain slightly acidic pH.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (15–20°C); tolerates cooler nights (10–15°C); avoid extreme heat.
Keep away from heat sources; maintain stable temperatures; adjust care for seasonal changes.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; stop in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Spores or division of rhizomes; spore propagation is more common for this species.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Collect mature spores.
- Prepare sterile medium.
- Scatter spores thinly.
- Keep moist and warm.
- Transplant once mature.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (80–90%), warm temperatures (20–25°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Mixture of peat moss and sand or specialized spore propagation medium.
Hormone
Not applicable for spore propagation; division may benefit from rooting hormone.
Timeline
Spores may take several months to germinate and establish; division can be quicker if rhizomes are healthy.
Tools Needed
Sterile containers, peat moss, sand, misting bottle, heat mat (optional).
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools to prevent contamination; maintain high humidity; be patient with spore germination.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut fronds at the base using clean, sharp tools; avoid cutting into healthy growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required; focus on removing dead or damaged fronds to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Pruning shears, scissors, or a sharp knife.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; remove only dead/damaged fronds; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with added organic matter.
Suggestions
Repot only when the plant becomes root-bound or the soil deteriorates; typically every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with drainage; gently remove plant; trim roots if needed; repot with fresh soil.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during active growth (spring-summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost or peat moss for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth and cause leaf damage; prolonged cold may lead to root rot.
Solution: Protect from drafts and cold windows; maintain consistent temperatures above 10°C; reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, and dehydration; may lead to premature flowering or seed set.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicGymnocarpium robertianum is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in felines after ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicGymnocarpium robertianum is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in canines after ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicGymnocarpium robertianum is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It has no documented adverse physiological effects when ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much light does Gymnocarpium robertianum need?
A: It thrives in partial to full shade, making it ideal for woodland gardens.
Q: Is Gymnocarpium robertianum toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this fern require special care?
A: It prefers moist, well-drained soil and consistent humidity, but is otherwise low maintenance.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Dryopteridaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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