Argyrochosma microphylla
Small-leaf false cloak fern · Smallleaf false cloakfern · Smallleaf falsecloak fern
Description
Source: leafsnapArgyrochosma microphylla, the small-leaf false cloak fern, is a species of fern native to New Mexico, Texas and northern Mexico. It grows on limestone rocks and cliffs, and has finely-divided leaves with small leaf segments, often folded in half when dry, which lack the white powder present on the leaf underside of many related species. First described as a species in 1869, it was transferred to the new genus Argyrochosma (the "false cloak ferns") in 1987, recognizing their distinctness from the "cloak ferns" (Notholaena sensu stricto).
Care Guide
💧 Water
☀️ Light Full shade
The small-leaf false cloak fern is native to habitats such as forest undergrowth or stony locales, which provide natural shade. While it fares best under complete shade, it can also cope with partial sun.
🌡️ Temperature 15–35°C
The Small-leaf false cloak fern flourishes in forest undergrowth. Its sensitivity to temperature and humidity is high, and it does not fare well in hot, arid conditions or under strong sunlight. During the hot months, it necessitates suitable shade and a moisture-rich environment. Generally, the Small-leaf false cloak fern doesn't need extra maintenance in the winter, however, long periods of winter dryness can also prove lethal to the fern.
💨 Humidity
🪴 Soil 6-7
🌱 Fertilizer
🪴 Pot & Repot
✂️ Pruning
The small-leaf false cloak fern requires minimal pruning. In early spring, trim any dead or damaged fronds to promote growth and improve its visual appeal. Make sure to use clean, sharp tools to prevent disease. Proper pruning enhances air circulation and light penetration, which are crucial for the health of the small-leaf false cloak fern.
🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity
Characteristics
- Plant Type
- Fern
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Argyrochosma
- Family
- Pteridaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 7-10
- Mature Height
- 10 cm to 30 cm
- Mature Spread
- 10 cm to 20 cm
- Leaf Color
- Green, Dark Green
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Native Area
- Mexico