California adder's-mouth
ophioglossum californicum
Also known as: ["adder's-mouth fern","adder's-tongue fern"]
Overview
A rare, small, terrestrial fern-like plant with distinctive, forked sporangia and simple leaves.
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 californicum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or container in a cool, moist environment
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, rich, slightly acidic soil with organic matter like peat moss or leaf litter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very high
- Toughness Level: very low
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically once or twice a year.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning only.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, indirect light for 4–6 hours daily. Tolerates partial shade; avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the fronds.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light if moving from shade; protect from intense midday sun; place in east-facing or north-facing locations indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
expert onlymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct sun; rotate plant for even light; use sheer curtains to filter intense light.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; avoid letting roots sit in water; reduce watering in winter dormancy.
Soil
moist, well-draining, humus-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 5.5–6.5.
Ensure good drainage; maintain slightly acidic pH; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, 50–70°F (10–21°C). Tolerates mild fluctuations but dislikes extreme heat or cold.
Keep away from drafty windows; maintain consistent room temperature; avoid placing near heat vents.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; apply to moist soil; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Spores or division of rhizomes. Spore propagation is more common for Ophioglossum species.
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 (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Moist, sterile sphagnum moss or a mix of peat and perlite.
Hormone
Not typically required for spore propagation; rooting hormone may help if using rhizome division.
Timeline
Spores may take several months to germinate and years to mature; rhizome division can establish in 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Spore collection kit, sterile knife, pots, humidity dome, mister.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools to prevent disease; maintain high humidity for spores; be patient with germination.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead fronds at the base with clean, sharp scissors.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed. Remove only dead or damaged fronds to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Sharp scissors or small pruning shears.
Checklist
Identify dead/damaged fronds; use clean tools; cut close to the base; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Gently remove the plant, trim any dead roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil, and water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot only when the plant becomes root-bound or every 2–3 years to refresh soil.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots gently; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water until it drains from the bottom; discard excess water; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water slowly and deeply at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone. Allow excess water to drain freely from the pot. Water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7–10 days in spring/summer, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall/winter. Adjust based on humidity and temperature.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate peat moss for acidity and water retention.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing fronds, stunted growth, or browning leaf tips in excessive heat; blackening or mushy stems in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or fungal infections if soil remains wet.
Solution: Move to a warmer location above 40°F (4°C); ensure soil is not overly wet; use a heat mat if necessary.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf burn, and reduced vigor, especially if combined with low humidity.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity with misting or a pebble tray, and ensure adequate watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring/summer). Avoid fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicOphioglossum californicum 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-toxicOphioglossum californicum 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-toxicOphioglossum californicum is not known to exhibit any toxic effects on humans. The plant is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ophioglossum californicum easy to grow?
A: No, it is very challenging to cultivate and requires specialized conditions.
Q: Where is Ophioglossum californicum typically found?
A: It is native to specific regions of California, often in moist, shaded habitats.
Q: Does Ophioglossum californicum have any medicinal uses?
A: There is no documented evidence of medicinal use for this species.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ophioglossaceae |
| Care: | expert only |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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