Polypodium interjectum
Polypodium interjectum · Polypodiaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant polypodium interjectum: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Plant type
- Fern
- Adult size
- 30 to 60 cm in height
- Growth
- Slow to moderate
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (-15°C and below)
- Origin
- Western and central Europe
- Soil type
- Rich, well-draining, slightly acidic
Care
Watering
Keep the substrate regularly moist, without waterlogging. Water more during the growing season (spring-summer) and reduce in winter. Mist the foliage regularly to recreate the natural ambient humidity.
Light exposure
Favour indirect, filtered light similar to woodland conditions. Avoid direct sun, which dries out the fronds. This fern tolerates shaded areas well.
Soil and substrate
Use a rich organic mix: potting soil, compost and fine bark. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot. Enrich regularly with compost.
Pruning and maintenance
Remove dried or damaged fronds as needed. Regularly clean away dead leaves to encourage air circulation. No structural pruning is necessary.
Fertiliser
Apply diluted balanced fertiliser or organic fertiliser in spring and summer, every 3 to 4 weeks. Ferns have moderate nutritional requirements.
Diseases and pests
Watch for scale insects and spider mites in dry conditions. Excess humidity without ventilation can promote mould. Ventilate regularly and clean up visible damage.
Did you know?
The intermediate polypody is an ancient fern whose spores were traditionally used in European herbal medicine. Its name 'interjectum' comes from its intermediate classification between two other polypody species, revealing the fascinating history of its botanical discovery in the 19th century.
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
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.