Psilotum nudum
Psilotum nudum · Psilotaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant psilotum nudum: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- English name
- Whisk fern
- Family
- Psilotaceae
- Type
- Primitive fern
- Foliage
- Evergreen, microphyll
- Adult size
- 20 to 40 cm in height
- Growth
- Slow
- Hardiness
- Low hardiness (warm/temperate climate)
- Origin
- Tropical and subtropical regions
Care
Watering
Keep the substrate slightly moist at all times without waterlogging. Water regularly during the growing season (spring-summer) and reduce watering in winter. Use soft or filtered water, as this fern dislikes limestone. Mist the foliage lightly to maintain humidity.
Light and exposure
Place your plant in indirect light, away from direct sun which can scorch its delicate foliage. A semi-shaded spot near an east or west-facing window is ideal. Avoid very dark areas that would slow down its growth.
Substrate
Use a light, well-draining mix: fern-specific potting soil, sphagnum moss, or a blend of pine bark and peat. Drainage is crucial to prevent root rot. Make sure your pot has drainage holes.
Fertilization
Apply a very diluted fertilizer (half strength) every 3 to 4 weeks during the growing season. Prefer a balanced liquid fertilizer or one light in nitrogen. Stop fertilizing in winter when growth slows down.
Pruning and cleaning
No actual pruning is necessary. Simply remove any dried or damaged stems at the base using clean pruners. Regularly clean the delicate foliage with a soft brush to remove dust.
Pests and diseases
The plant is generally robust but dreads stagnant excess moisture, which causes rot. Watch for mealybugs and spider mites in dry indoor conditions. If infested, isolate the plant and treat with diluted insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Did you know?
Psilotum nudum is one of the most archaic ferns in the plant kingdom, virtually unchanged for over 300 million years. Lacking true roots and true leaves in the strict botanical sense, this "living fossil" fascinates botanists because it reproduces exclusively by spores, without flowers or seeds, making it a living witness to the early evolution of land plants.
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.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.