Lip Fern
pyrrosia piloselloides
Also known as: ["Lipfern","Pyrrosia piloselloides"]
Overview
A small, epiphytic fern with creeping rhizomes and leathery, lance-shaped fronds, native to tropical and subtropical regions.
Benefits & Perks
["shade tolerant","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Polypodiopsida |
| Order: | Polypodiales |
| Family: | Polypodiaceae |
| Genus: | Pyrrosia |
| Botanical Name: | Pyrrosia piloselloides |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a bright, humid room or shaded outdoor garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain moderate humidity, especially in dry environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining mix with orchid bark, perlite, and peat moss.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every few months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than 20% of foliage at once.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerate lower light but may grow slower.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate to brighter light gradually; avoid direct sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to bright indirect light
Rotate plant for even light; use sheer curtains for filtered light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, slightly acidic potting mix with added perlite or sand
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–6.5).
Ensure soil is loose and airy; avoid compacted soil; use a mix with good aeration.
Temperature
Prefers 60–80°F (15–27°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid extremes.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain moderate warmth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; stop in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; leaf cuttings can also be used.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and warm temperatures (70–75°F).
Medium
Well-draining mix like peat and perlite or sphagnum moss.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy parent material; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Trim with clean cuts just above leaf nodes; remove entire fronds if necessary.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or yellowing fronds to maintain appearance and health; shape as needed.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; remove dead/damaged parts; shape evenly; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring or early summer before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider) than the current one.
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; use fresh well-draining soil.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots; add fresh soil; water lightly.
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; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid drafty areas.
Hot Stress
Leaves may curl, wilt, or scorch in excessive heat; growth may slow.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse tools after use.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPyrrosia piloselloides is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose any significant health risks upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicPyrrosia piloselloides is not known to be toxic to dogs. It poses no significant health risks upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicPyrrosia piloselloides is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Pyrrosia piloselloides?
A: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, typically every 7-10 days, ensuring good drainage to prevent root rot.
Q: Does this plant require direct sunlight?
A: No, it prefers indirect, dappled light or partial shade, mimicking its natural epiphytic habitat.
Q: Can Pyrrosia piloselloides be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it thrives indoors in humid environments with proper light and watering conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Polypodiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to bright indire |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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