Ear-shaped Bolbitis
bolbitis auriculata
Also known as: ["Ear-shaped fern","Bolbitis with auriculate leaves"]
Overview
A tropical fern species with distinctive ear-shaped leaflets, native to Southeast Asia and known for its ornamental foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Polypodiopsida |
| Order: | Polypodiales |
| Family: | Dryopteridaceae |
| Genus: | Bolbitis |
| Botanical Name: | Bolbitis auriculata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or indoor pot with high humidity
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, rich in organic matter, such as a mix of peat, perlite, and loam.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every few months or when fronds become unsightly.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, focusing on selective removal of older or damaged fronds.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to lower light in summer to prevent leaf burn.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate to brighter light gradually; avoid direct sunlight to prevent scorching; place in a spot with filtered light for optimal growth.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright, indirect light
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; monitor for signs of light stress.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water deeply to encourage root growth; ensure proper drainage to avoid waterlogging; adjust frequency based on season and humidity.
Soil
moist, well-draining, rich in organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Use a well-draining mix, avoid compacted soil, and maintain consistent moisture.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); cooler temperatures in winter (55–60°F or 13–15°C) can be tolerated.
Avoid sudden temperature changes, maintain consistent warmth, and protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn, fertilize during active growth, and flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy stem or rhizome, cut below a node, prepare the medium, plant the cutting, maintain humidity, and wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity, warm temperatures (70–75°F or 21–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Peaty potting mix with perlite for good drainage and aeration.
Hormone
Optional, but can help speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–6 weeks; new growth may take 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), pots, and a humidifier or plastic bag.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, clean tools, maintain high humidity, and avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut fronds at the base using clean, sharp scissors or pruners.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged fronds to encourage new growth and maintain plant health.
Tools
Pruning shears or sharp scissors, disinfectant.
Checklist
Inspect plant, sanitize tools, remove dead/damaged fronds, clean up debris, monitor regrowth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one, ensuring good drainage.
Method
Gently remove the plant, trim any dead roots, place in a new pot with fresh soil, and water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound.
Checklist
Check root boundness, prepare new pot, trim roots if needed, use fresh soil, water lightly, and place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, adjust for season, observe plant response.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, avoiding foliage; ensure water reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain completely; 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, and ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to diseases.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots, avoid cold drafts, and reduce watering.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced vigor due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently, and ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, apply to moist soil, avoid foliage contact, flush periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicBolbitis auriculata is not known to be toxic to cats. It poses no significant health risks upon ingestion.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicBolbitis auriculata is not known to be toxic to dogs. It poses no significant health risks upon ingestion.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicBolbitis auriculata is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Bolbitis auriculata?
A: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Q: Does Bolbitis auriculata require direct sunlight?
A: No, it thrives in partial shade or indirect light, as direct sunlight can scorch its leaves.
Q: Is Bolbitis auriculata safe for pets?
A: Yes, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Dryopteridaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright, indirect light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
