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Image of Didymochlaena (Didymochlaena truncatula)

Didymochlaena imagePhoto: Author Chhe (talk)Public domain

Didymochlaena

Didymochlaena truncatula

Native to Tropical regions of Asia, Africa, and Pacific islands

Didymochlaena truncatula is an evergreen terrestrial fern growing 0.8–3 meters tall with upright, scaly rhizomes. It features bipinnate and imparipinnate fronds that create a symmetrical, feather-like appearance. The plant's leathery dark green leaflets have a distinctive triangular shape and glossy texture. Its architectural form and tropical appearance make it notable among ferns.

Plant Care Overview

Difficultymoderate
Lightbright, indirect light
Waterkeep soil consistently moist (water when top 1-2 inches of soil dry out)
Humidityhigh

Care Guide

Essential requirements for your Didymochlaena

Light & Location

Light Requirements

bright, indirect light

Light conditions can affect leaf color and growth rate. Adjust placement as needed based on your plant's response.

Water & Humidity

Watering Schedule

keep soil consistently moist (water when top 1-2 inches of soil dry out)

Humidity Needs

high humidity

Always check soil moisture before watering. Adjust frequency based on your home's conditions.

Temperature & Environment

Temperature Range

15-26°C (59-79°F)

Native Climate

Native to Tropical regions of Asia, Africa, and Pacific islands

Keep away from drafts, heaters, and air conditioners which can stress your plant.

Soil & Nutrition

Soil Type

Well-draining, rich organic mix with perlite or bark

Fertilizer

Balanced houseplant fertilizer during growing season

Consider repotting every 1-2 years to refresh soil nutrients and accommodate growth.

Propagation

Methods to grow more Didymochlaena plants

Rhizome division or spore propagation

Plant Info

Characteristics and background information

Plant Characteristics
Native Region

Tropical regions of Asia, Africa, and Pacific islands

Growth Rate

moderate

Mature Size

0.8–3 meters tall

Lifecycle

perennial

Pet Safety

Pet safety unknown

Fun Fact

This fern is the sole genus in its family Didymochlaenaceae, representing a unique evolutionary branch among polypod ferns.

Troubleshooting

Solutions for typical issues with your Didymochlaena

Low humidity stress
Symptoms

Brown leaf tips, crispy frond edges, and leaf drop

Root rot
Symptoms

Yellowing fronds, mushy rhizomes, and foul soil odor

Scale insects
Symptoms

Small brown bumps on fronds and stems, sticky residue

Varieties

Different varieties of Didymochlaena

Didymochlaena sinuosa
More pronounced leaf serrations compared to other species

A variety with deeply lobed pinnae creating wavy leaf margins

Didymochlaena philippensis
Smaller mature size and darker green foliage

Philippine native variety with compact growth habit

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