Ophioglossum californicum
California Adder's-Tongue · California adderstongue
Description
Source: leafsnapOphioglossum californicum, commonly known as the California adder's tongue fern, is a unique and rare species of fern native to California and parts of Oregon. Belonging to the family Ophioglossaceae, it is characterized by its long, slender fronds that resemble a snake's tongue. These fronds can grow up to 30 cm in length and are typically green. This plant thrives in moist soil conditions with partial shade or full sun exposure. It can be found in a variety of habitats, including meadows, woodlands, wetlands, and along streams. The California adder's tongue fern reproduces through spores, which are produced on separate fertile stalks distinct from the sterile fronds. These spores are dispersed by wind or water. Due to its rarity and unique appearance, Ophioglossum californicum has garnered significant interest from botanists and plant enthusiasts alike. However, it is also threatened by habitat loss resulting from human activities such as urbanization and agricultural expansion. Overall, this plant plays an important ecological role within its native habitat while also being appreciated for its aesthetic value by nature enthusiasts.
Care Guide
💧 Water Every 7 days
☀️ Light Full shade
California adder's-tongue is native to habitats such as forest understories or rocky areas that provide natural shade. It prefers Full Shade but can tolerate Partial Sun.
🌡️ Temperature 15–37.8°C
California adder's-tongue grows best in forest undergrowth. It is very sensitive to temperature and humidity; high temperatures, dry conditions, and strong sunlight all make the plant uncomfortable. In summer it needs adequate shading and a high-humidity environment. Although it generally doesn't require special care in winter, a prolonged winter drought can still be fatal.
💨 Humidity
🪴 Soil 6-7
🌱 Fertilizer
🪴 Pot & Repot
✂️ Pruning
🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity
Characteristics
- Plant Type
- Fern
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Ophioglossum
- Family
- Ophioglossaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 8-11
- Mature Height
- 5 cm to 15 cm
- Mature Spread
- 3 cm to 8 cm
- Leaf Color
- Light Green, Yellow Green
- Leaf Type
- Deciduous
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Native Area
- Mexico