Pellaea

Family Pteridaceae. Native to tropical, subtropical and temperate regions in America, Africa, New Zealand, etc. About 80 species of this genus are found in nature. Pellaea are ferns but are not considered easy to grow.

Pellaea rotundifolia - a small plant with a creeping scaly rhizome. Fronds pinnate, up to 25 cm long and 4-5 cm wide, segmented into 15-20 pairs of rounded, bare, leathery leaflets on short stalks. The margins of the leaflets are slightly turned under and beneath them a broad band of sporangia is located. It grows in rocky areas and tolerates dry air well.

Pellaea viridis - with a creeping rhizome and fronds gathered in a basal rosette on long brown stalks. Fronds once-pinnate, up to 50 cm long and 20 cm wide, segmented into oval, bare, leathery leaflets on short stalks. This species is very similar to the previous one but differs by a more elongated leaflet shape and a larger overall size.

Temperature: During active growth (summer) it should not exceed 20 °C; during the dormancy period - 14-16°C. If the winter temperature is above 18 °C, the Pellaea will need to be misted.

Light: Light partial shade in spring and summer; protection from direct sunlight. If a Pellaea stands in too dark a place its fronds become faded.

Watering: Moderate and regular (avoiding drying out or waterlogging). Water should be soft, well-settled, and at room temperature. Try to avoid getting water on the leaves when watering.

Fertilizer: From March to August Pellaea are fed with liquid fertilizers for ornamental foliage houseplants. Feed every three weeks at a dose not exceeding the manufacturer's recommendation.

Air humidity: Pellaea, unlike many other ferns, tolerate dry air well.

Repotting: This plant needs loose soil with a slightly acidic reaction. Soil mix - 1 part leaf mould, 2 parts peat, 0.5 part humus soil and 1 part sand. Repot annually. Good drainage is essential.

Propagation: Propagated by spores and by division of the rhizome.