Cut-leaved Grapefern
Sceptridium dissectum · Ophioglossaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant cut-leaved grapefern: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous, bipinnate and finely cut
- Plant type
- Archaic fern (Ophioglossaceae)
- Adult size
- 15 to 40 cm in height
- Growth
- Very slow
- Hardiness
- Good, down to -15 °C depending on region
- Natural habitat
- Wetlands, forests, calcareous meadows of North America and Europe
- Soil
- Moist, well-draining, rich in organic matter
Care
Watering
Keep the soil consistently moist, without waterlogging. During spring growing season, water regularly to mimic the natural climate of wetland zones. In summer, if drought sets in, increase frequency to prevent complete substrate drying.
Light exposure
Choose partial to full shade, sheltered from direct sun which would scorch the delicate foliage. Indoors, indirect light is ideal to promote growth. This fern appreciates cool, shaded environments reminiscent of its forest habitat.
Soil and substrate
Create a mixture rich in organic matter: leaf mold, peat (or sustainable alternative) and perlite in balanced proportions. Slightly acidic to neutral pH favors development. Ensure excellent drainage to prevent rhizome rot.
Fertilizing
Apply a very diluted balanced fertilizer in spring and early summer, once or twice monthly. Avoid over-fertilizing, which could burn fragile foliage. For such an ancient and delicate fern, restraint is better than excess.
Pruning and cleaning
No pruning is necessary. Simply remove dead or damaged fronds at the base. This light tidying facilitates air circulation and prevents disease.
Diseases and pests
Mealybugs and spider mites can appear in dry conditions. Maintain adequate humidity through regular misting. Ensure good air circulation and avoid stagnant water accumulation which promotes rot and fungi.
Fun fact
Sceptridium dissectum belongs to one of the oldest fern families in the plant kingdom, virtually unchanged since the Carboniferous period. Its spores contain an oil once used in traditional medicine. This small, discreet fern is a true window into botanical prehistory—so fragile and precious that it requires special protection in certain regions.
Did you know?
Sceptridium dissectum belongs to one of the oldest fern families in the plant kingdom, virtually unchanged since the Carboniferous period. Its spores contain an oil once used in traditional medicine. This small, discreet fern is a true window into botanical prehistory—so fragile and precious that it requires special protection in certain regions.
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
- Botrypus virginianusBotrypus virginianus
- Leathery grapefernSceptridium multifidum
- Least Adder's-tongueOphioglossum lusitanicum
- Lanceleaf grapefernBotrychium lanceolatum
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.