Delicate Filmy Fern
hymenophyllum tunbrigense
Also known as: ["Filmy Fern","Tunbridge Filmy Fern"]
Overview
A small, delicate fern with thin, translucent fronds, typically found in damp, shaded environments.
Benefits & Perks
["shade tolerant","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Polypodiopsida |
| Order: | Hymenophyllales |
| Family: | Hymenophyllaceae |
| Genus: | Hymenophyllum |
| Botanical Name: | Hymenophyllum tunbrigense |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: shaded rock garden or humid greenhouse
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity levels
- Drainage: Well-draining but moisture-retentive.
- Soil Type: Moist, well-draining, acidic soil with high organic matter, such as a mix of peat moss, perlite, and orchid bark.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: low
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every few months or when fronds show signs of damage.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; only remove dead or discolored fronds.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; avoid direct sunlight which can scorch delicate fronds. Adjust light exposure gradually if moving plant from low to bright light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to brighter light; protect from direct sun; place in a humid spot with filtered light, such as near a north-facing window or under a sheer curtain.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial to full shade
Avoid direct sun; maintain high humidity; rotate plant monthly for even growth.
Watering
every 5–7 days, keeping soil consistently moist but not waterlogged
Maintain high humidity; avoid letting soil dry out completely; water when the top layer feels slightly dry.
Soil
moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil
pH: Acidic, ideally between 5.0 and 6.5.
Keep soil consistently moist; ensure good drainage; maintain slightly acidic pH.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 50–70°F (10–21°C). Tolerates mild fluctuations but dislikes extreme heat or cold.
Keep away from drafts; maintain stable temperatures; avoid sudden temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 2 months during active growth with a diluted liquid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burning; fertilize only during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Spores or division of rhizomes. Spore propagation is more common for this species.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Collect mature spores.
- Scatter spores on sterile medium.
- Keep moist and humid.
- Wait for gametophytes to develop.
- Then grow into mature plants.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (80–100%), warm temperatures (65–75°F/18–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Moss or a mix of peat and perlite, kept consistently moist.
Hormone
Not necessary for spore propagation; division may benefit from a mild rooting hormone.
Timeline
Spores may take several months to germinate and establish; division can be quicker, often establishing in a few weeks.
Tools Needed
Spore collection kit, sterile medium, spray bottle, humidity dome, grow light.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools; maintain high humidity; be patient with spore germination.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip individual fronds at the base with clean, sharp scissors or pruners.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged fronds to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Clean scissors or small pruning shears, disinfectant.
Checklist
Remove dead/damaged fronds; use clean tools; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up from the current pot; ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant, trim any dead roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil, and water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant outgrows its container, as it prefers slightly crowded roots.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture daily; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; maintain high humidity.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture distribution. Apply water directly to the soil, avoiding the fronds to prevent fungal issues. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry during the day.
Watering Schedule Tips
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water more frequently during active growth (spring/summer) and reduce slightly in winter. Mist regularly to maintain high humidity.
Soil Improvement
Add peat moss for acidity and moisture retention; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; use leaf mold or compost for organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing or browning of fronds, stunted growth, or wilting in response to temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth and cause fronds to turn brown or black, especially below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move plant away from drafty windows or cold spots; use a space heater if necessary to maintain optimal temperature; provide a layer of mulch to insulate roots.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat (above 75°F/24°C) can cause fronds to wilt, brown, or drop, and may lead to dehydration.
Solution: Increase humidity with misting or a humidifier; move to a cooler location; provide shade during peak heat hours.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer (e.g., 1/4 strength) every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring/summer). Avoid fertilizing in winter when growth slows.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicHymenophyllum tunbrigense is not considered toxic to cats. No toxic compounds or adverse effects have been documented following ingestion by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicHymenophyllum tunbrigense has not been reported to be toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion of this fern species.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicHymenophyllum tunbrigense is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is a small, delicate fern with no documented adverse effects when ingested in small quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Hymenophyllum tunbrigense?
A: Keep the soil consistently moist, as this fern thrives in damp conditions.
Q: Can this fern be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it can be grown indoors provided it receives high humidity and indirect light.
Q: Is Hymenophyllum tunbrigense toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Hymenophyllaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial to full shade |
| Water: | every 5–7 days, keeping soil |
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