Botrypus virginianus
Botrypus virginianus · Ophioglossaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant botrypus virginianus: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Type
- Fern
- Family
- Ophioglossaceae
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Mature size
- 15 to 30 cm tall
- Growth
- Very slow
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to -20°C)
- Origin
- North America
- Soil type
- Moist, rich in organic matter
Care
Watering
Keep the soil constantly moist, but without water stagnation. Water regularly during the growing period (spring and summer), especially during prolonged dry spells. In autumn and winter, reduce watering but never let the soil dry out completely.
Exposure and light
Place this delicate fern in partial shade or dappled shade. It fears direct rays of intense sun, which can scorch its fronds. A sheltered and humid spot, like a light forest area, is ideal.
Soil and substrate
Prepare soil very rich in humus, acidic to neutral, well-draining but very humus-rich. Generously incorporate compost or decomposed fallen leaves to replicate its natural forest habitat. A mulch of leaves helps retain moisture.
Fertilizer
This ancient fern requires little fertilizer. A modest application of well-decomposed compost in spring is more than sufficient. Avoid concentrated chemical fertilizers that could damage the delicate fronds.
Pruning and cleaning
No pruning is necessary. Simply remove dead or damaged fronds as they appear. In autumn, leave dried fronds on the soil to create a protective mulch during winter.
Pests and diseases
This fern is generally very robust and not very susceptible to pests. The main threats are excessive dryness and poorly drained soils that promote rhizome rot. Ensure proper ventilation to prevent mold in persistently humid climates.
Did you know?
The Virginia grape fern is an ancient fern belonging to a primitive family. Traced to the heart of North American forests, it produces sterile (nutritive) fronds and a specialized frond as a cluster of sporulation, recalling the organization of the earliest plants on Earth. Disappeared from many regions due to forest clearing, it remains a living relic of the Carboniferous period.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- MoonwortBotrychium lunaria
- Adder's tongueOphioglossum vulgatum
- Leathery grapefernSceptridium multifidum
- Cut-leaved GrapefernSceptridium dissectum
- Least Adder's-tongueOphioglossum lusitanicum
- Lanceleaf grapefernBotrychium lanceolatum
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.