Necklace Vine
microgramma lycopodioides
Also known as: ["Necklace Fern","Lycopodium Fern"]
Overview
A tropical epiphytic fern with distinctive scale-like leaves resembling lycopodium, native to Central and South America.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Polypodiopsida |
| Order: | Polypodiales |
| Family: | Polypodiaceae |
| Genus: | Microgramma |
| Botanical Name: | Microgramma lycopodioides |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor or sheltered outdoor location with high humidity
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days, especially in dry environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic mix like orchid bark, peat, and perlite.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates lower light but may grow slower.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light; protect from direct sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright, indirect light
Avoid direct sunlight; rotate plant for even growth; adjust light in winter.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, slightly acidic potting mix
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).
Ensure good drainage; maintain slightly acidic pH; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers 60–80°F (15–27°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid extremes.
Protect from drafts; maintain moderate temps; adjust care for seasonal changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; stop in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Apply rooting hormone if desired.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix like peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone can be used but is not strictly necessary.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth in 2–4 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy cuttings; maintain humidity; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinching back tips or cutting stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or leggy stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/leggy stems; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season 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; may need repotting if growth slows.
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 at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; 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 coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like peat for acidity.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in response to stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf discoloration or drop 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 excessive heat above 90°F (32°C).
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-toxicMicrogramma lycopodioides is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant does not produce known toxins that would cause adverse effects in felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicMicrogramma lycopodioides is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant does not produce known toxins that would cause adverse effects in canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicMicrogramma lycopodioides is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. The plant is generally considered safe for handling and consumption, though no specific studies have been conducted to confirm its complete non-toxicity.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Microgramma lycopodioides?
A: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, typically once a week, ensuring good drainage to prevent root rot.
Q: Does this plant require direct sunlight?
A: No, it prefers bright, indirect light or partial shade, mimicking its natural epiphytic habitat.
Q: Can I grow this plant indoors?
A: Yes, it thrives indoors in humid environments with indirect light, making it suitable for terrariums or bathrooms.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Polypodiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright, indirect light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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