Adder's-tongue
ophioglossum pendulum
Also known as: ["Forked Adder's-tongue","Serpent's-tongue"]
Overview
A unique fern-like plant with a single fertile spike and forked sporangia, native to temperate and tropical regions.
Benefits & Perks
["rare/collector’s item","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Polypodiopsida |
| Order: | Ophioglossales |
| Family: | Ophioglossaceae |
| Genus: | Ophioglossum |
| Botanical Name: | Ophioglossum pendulum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or container in a humid environment
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity
- Drainage: Well-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining soil with high organic matter content, such as a mix of peat, loam, and sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically once or twice a year.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or yellowing fronds.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; tolerate partial shade.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light; protect from direct sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade
Avoid direct sunlight; rotate plant for even growth; provide dappled light if outdoors.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; avoid letting the plant dry out completely.
Soil
moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix that retains moisture but drains well; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); cooler temperatures in winter promote dormancy.
Protect from frost; maintain stable temperatures; avoid sudden fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 2 months during active growth (spring and summer)
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options for gentler feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Spores or division of rhizomes; spore propagation is more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Collect mature spores.
- Surface sow on sterile medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
- Or divide rhizomes carefully and replant.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (80–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Mixture of peat moss and sand or specialized spore propagation medium.
Hormone
Not applicable for spores; division may benefit from rooting hormone.
Timeline
Spores may take several months to germinate; division can establish in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sterile knife, spore collection container, propagation tray, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools to prevent fungal issues; maintain consistent moisture for spores; divide only when the plant is overcrowded.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip individual fronds at the base with clean cuts.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; focus on removing dead or damaged fronds to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Inspect for dead fronds; use clean tools; dispose of removed fronds properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one; ensure it has 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 every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil mix; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture daily; water early morning or late evening; ensure proper drainage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water slowly at the base of the plant, ensuring even saturation of the root zone; allow excess water to drain away completely.
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 by avoiding compacted soil.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and can cause leaf damage or dieback in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced vigor in temperatures above 85°F (29°C).
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer correctly; apply to moist soil.
Fertilizing Method
Use a 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-toxicOphioglossum pendulum is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects following ingestion by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicOphioglossum pendulum is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects following ingestion by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicOphioglossum pendulum is not known to produce any toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects in humans. The plant is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ophioglossum pendulum toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.
Q: How often should I water Ophioglossum pendulum?
A: Water moderately, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Q: Does Ophioglossum pendulum require special soil?
A: It thrives in well-draining, humus-rich soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ophioglossaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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