This unusual native plant, the cutleaf grapefern (Sceptridium obliquum form, I believe) is sometimes referred to as an fern ally, not a true fern though it is fern-like. It's related to the more widespread rattlesnake fern, and grows underground for 8 years, establishing a network with mycorrhizal fungi in the soil before producing a frond above ground, one each year.
It is extremely beneficial to plants like this that we not destroy soil structure by digging and turning. Having an underground developmental time of 8 years before coming to the surface puts these organisms at risk of being destroyed when we disturb soils. I have had 2 occur in my yard since living here! So pleasing! Look at the beautiful glossy leaves.
Like orchids, their growing conditions are highly dependent on specific mycorrhizal networks, and are well nigh impossible to propagate artificially - leave them where they are and enjoy them.
No comments:
Post a Comment