Lingulate Thelypteris
thelypteris lingulata
Also known as: ["Lingulate Thelypteris Fern","Tongue-shaped Thelypteris"]
Overview
A species of fern in the family Thelypteridaceae, characterized by its tongue-shaped leaflets.
Benefits & Perks
["shade tolerant","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Polypodiopsida |
| Order: | Polypodiales |
| Family: | Thelypteridaceae |
| Genus: | Thelypteris |
| Botanical Name: | Thelypteris lingulata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or container with indirect light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, rich in organic matter; peat-based mix with sand or perlite.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every few months or when fronds decline.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; focus on removing only dead or yellowing fronds.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light; protect from direct sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade
Avoid direct sunlight; rotate plant for even growth; adjust light in winter.
Watering
every 7–10 days
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; ensure good drainage; avoid letting the plant sit in water.
Soil
moist, well-draining, humus-rich soil
pH: Acidic to slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5).
Use peat-based mix; ensure good drainage; maintain moisture balance.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid extreme cold or heat.
Avoid drafts; maintain stable temps; protect from extreme heat/cold.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; stop in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Spore propagation or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Collect spores or divide rhizomes.
- Prepare medium.
- Plant spores or divisions.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for growth.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%); warm temperatures (65–75°F); indirect light.
Medium
Mixture of peat moss and perlite; keep consistently moist.
Hormone
Not required for spores; optional for rhizome division.
Timeline
Spores may take 1–3 months to germinate; rhizome division establishes quickly.
Tools Needed
Spore collection kit, sharp knife, pots, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use fresh spores; keep medium moist; provide consistent warmth.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip individual fronds at the base; avoid cutting into healthy growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; remove dead or damaged fronds to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Inspect fronds; sanitize tools; cut cleanly; dispose of debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; promotes fresh soil and growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; allow excess to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; avoid sudden temperature drops.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced vigor in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse between feedings.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicThelypteris lingulata is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicThelypteris lingulata is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicThelypteris lingulata is not known to exhibit any toxic properties to humans. The plant is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much light does Thelypteris lingulata need?
A: It thrives in partial to full shade, making it ideal for shaded garden areas.
Q: Is Thelypteris lingulata toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this fern require frequent watering?
A: It prefers consistently moist soil but should not be waterlogged to avoid root rot.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Thelypteridaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days |
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