Just by taking a look at the asplenium parvati we already see that it is a fern, and perhaps it will seem similar to others that you already know. This is because it is a hybrid that brings together the best characteristics of its “parents”.
We are going to talk to you in more detail about this variety so that you know everything about it, and we are also going to tell you what specific care it needs.
A spectacular hybrid
Many types of ferns that have developed naturally, but some of the most popular varieties turn out to be hybrids, as is the case with asplenium parvati.
It is born from the crossing of Asplenium dimorphum and Asplenium difforme. Each of these species provides unique characteristics to the parvati.
Asplenium dimorphum. It is a fern with dimorphic fronds, in which we can see a great difference between those that are fertile and those that are sterile. While the fertile ones are thin and segmented, the sterile ones are wide and leathery. It is a plant with a growth habit based on a basal rosette and native to New Caledonia.
Asplenium difforme. It also has dimorphic fronds and basal rosette-shaped growth. Its natural habitat is found in this case in Australia and the Pacific islands.
As a hybrid of these two varieties, the parvati is a plant with a beautiful aesthetic and is relatively easy to care for, as well as very resistant.
Physical characteristics of asplenium parvati
It combines some of the physical characteristics of the parent species, so it can be confused with them. If you want to know if you are really looking at a fern of this type, pay attention to these factors:
Fronds
It has dimorphic fronds. The sterile ones are somewhat wider, They have a leathery texture and usually have wavy edges. For their part, the fertile fronds are narrower, elongated and segmented, with a feathery appearance.
Their size can vary, but it is common for them to be long and arched. In addition, it is common for fertile fronds to be longer than those that are not fertile.
In both cases the color is a bright green that It stands out compared to other indoor plants.
From Asplenium dimorphum, Parvati has inherited the leathery texture of the sterile fronds, while from Asplenium difforme it has inherited the segmented and more feathery shape of the fertile fronds. As well as the ability to adapt to different light intensities.
growth habit
Like the plants from which it is derived, asplenium parvati grows in the form of a basal rosette. The fronds emerge from a central point and arch outward, creating a structure that reminds us of a nest.
All the fronds are arranged in a symmetrical pattern, so the plant shows a balanced and aesthetically pleasing appearance.
Rhizomes
The rhizomes of this fern are short and thick, creating a firm base for frond growth. If you look closely you will see that they are covered in brown scales that are responsible for providing protection to new shoots.
Roots
The root system is relatively superficial, but has the capacity to extend widely. This allows the plant to anchor itself well to the soil and to seek nutrients even in poor soil.
Asplenium parvati care
Ferns are resistant plants, but they need specific care to thrive, and this variety is no exception, although Its hybrid status makes it a little more adaptable to different environments.
Light conditions
This fern prefers to be exposed to bright indirect light, because too much sun on its fronds can burn them. The ideal is to find a location where it can receive filtered light.
It tolerates some shade well, so it's not a bad choice for interiors that don't receive much natural light.
Fern watering
As with other ferns, to The survival of this plant requires that the substrate be uniformly moist.. As soon as you notice that the top layer of the substrate is already dry, it is time to water.
Apply a deep watering, until you see the water coming out of the drainage holes of the pot, and be careful to discard any water left in the saucer.
In areas with warm climates you can water every two or three days during spring and summer, in winter you can reduce the frequency, and watering once a week will be enough.
Humidity conditions
Asplenium parvati grows well in environments with high humidity, between 60% and 80%. To create the ideal environment for it, place it near a humidifier, or place a container with water near the pot so that it The plant absorbs moisture as that water evaporates.
Another way to provide humidity is to lightly mist the fronds with distilled water or, better yet, rainwater.
Planting medium
The ideal substrate for this type of plant is a mixture between universal substrate and special substrate for ferns. Although any soil that is capable of retaining moisture and, at the same time, have good drainage capacity.
It is important that the substrate is well aerated, because soil compaction can negatively affect the roots.
Temperature
It is best that this variety is not exposed to extreme temperatures, neither cold nor hot., and not to sudden changes in temperature. The ideal temperature range for it is between 18º and 24º C.
Fertilizing Asplenium Parvati
Be careful, because too much fertilizer can damage its roots and foliage. Apply extra nutrition only during the spring and summer months; it is enough to add it to the irrigation water every four or six weeks.
Fern pruning
You can remove damaged or yellowed fronds whenever you see fit. This promotes healthy growth and improves the appearance of the plant.
The fronds have a tendency to accumulate dust, You can remove it with a cloth slightly dampened with water. This will not only make the plant look prettier, but it will allow it to breathe better.
Transplant
The roots of this variety can spread quite a bit, which makes it advisable to change the pot every two or three years. Use a slightly larger container than the current one and add fresh, quality substrate.
Do you dare to have an asplenium parvati at home? You will be surprised how beautiful it can be if you take good care of it.