Lomaria discolor
Lomaria discolor · Blechnaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant lomaria discolor: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Evergreen, dimorphic (sterile and fertile fronds differ)
- Plant type
- Fern of Australian origin
- Adult size
- 60 to 100 cm in height
- Growth
- Moderate
- Frost hardiness
- Frost-sensitive, best grown indoors or in a temperate greenhouse
- Origin
- Australia and New Zealand
- Exposure
- Indirect light, partial shade
Care
Watering
Keep the substrate moist but not waterlogged year-round. Water regularly during the growing season (spring-summer). Reduce slightly in winter. Prefer soft or filtered water, as ferns often dislike hard water with lime.
Light and exposure
Place the fern in indirect light, away from direct sun rays which can scorch the fronds. Partial shade is ideal. Avoid dark areas that would slow its growth.
Substrate and drainage
Use a mix rich in organic matter: leaf mold, sphagnum, and perlite. Drainage is crucial to prevent rhizome rot. A draining pot is essential.
Fertilizer and nutrition
Apply a very diluted fertilizer (1/4 of the recommended dose) every 15 to 20 days during the growing period. Stop in autumn and winter. Ferns prefer light, regular feeding.
Pests and diseases
Watch for spider mites in dry air and mealybugs. Regular misting of the foliage increases humidity and limits these problems. If infestation occurs, isolate the plant and treat gently (avoid harsh chemicals).
Pruning and maintenance
Remove dead or damaged fronds at the base to encourage growth. Do not prune healthy fronds. Gently clean the fronds with a damp cloth to remove dust.
Did you know?
Lomaria discolor is remarkable for its leaf dimorphism: it produces two distinct types of fronds — the sterile fronds, broad and decorative, and the fertile fronds, narrower, intended for reproduction. This evolutionary strategy allows the fern to optimize both its photosynthesis and spore dispersal, making it a fascinating example of botanical adaptation.
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
- Hard FernStruthiopteris spicant
- Parablechnum novae-zelandiaeParablechnum novae-zelandiae
- Cranfillia fluviatilisCranfillia fluviatilis
- Netted chain fernLorinseria areolata
- Oceaniopteris cartilagineaOceaniopteris cartilaginea
- Hammock fernBlechnum occidentale
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.