Cultivation of the java fern requires basic knowledge of growth. It is an epiphytic plant that is suitable for greening roots and stones. The plant is known as black salsify fern and has the scientific name Microsorum pteropus.
Java fern is a frugal epiphyte
This is how Java fern grows
The fern develops a creeping rhizome that is densely covered with scales. Rough and hard leaves sprout from this, which are lanceolate in shape and reach a length of about 20 centimeters. When young, the tip of the leaf appears transparent, later turning completely green. The irregularly wavy leaf edges are aesthetically pleasing.
Occurrence and Ecology
Java fern has its main distribution area in the tropical regions of Asia. Here the species grows in rivers and streams with stony subsoil, which are alternately flooded and dry. The fern needs these conditions in order to reach spore maturity. The spores are formed underneath the leaves when they are not flooded. In the water, the plants colonize the roots of aquatic plants.
Use as an ornamental plant
The java fern is a popular marsh and aquatic plant for aquariums and paludariums. In the underwater vegetation, the fern prefers stones or plant roots as a base. As epiphytic plants, the ferns with their free-standing dark roots are a highlight in the aquarium. If planted in gravel, the rhizome will thrive and become stunted. In the reptile terrarium you can also plant the salsify fern in the loose soil.
The fern needs:
- hard to medium-hard water
- Fertilization only necessary with a degree of hardness of 0 to 7
- Temperatures between 20 and 28 degrees Celsius
tether
The spotted fern allows almost infinite design possibilities, because it can be attached to different objects. Take a root, place the plant on it and carefully tie it with fishing line or twine. Alternatively, rubbers are used for attachment.
Wire is not recommended as it will rust in water. Another possibility is clamping between two stones, in crevices in wood or rocks on the aquarium walls. It is important that you do not injure the root structure. Otherwise there is a risk of rotting.
tips
The java moss (Taxiphyllum barbieri) is one of the most popular aquarium mosses because it has proven to be particularly frugal in terms of light and water parameters.
binding
After the fern has grown, you can remove the fastening cords. Over time, it develops adhesive roots, which the plant uses to hold itself to the ground. If you use stones as a base, you should use green or brown string. You do not have to remove these as they are not conspicuous due to their color.
multiply
The black salsify fern can be easily reproduced by division. Separate part of the rhizome from the mother plant so that the daughter plant has some leaves available. Tie this section to a suitable support using the tying method.