Gleichenia dicarpa, commonly known as pouched coral fern or tangle fern, is a small fern of the family Gleicheniaceae found in eastern Australia, New Caledonia and New Zealand. It forms tangled thickets in wet places such as swamps and riverbanks.
The swamp umbrella fern is generally resistant to disease and tends to have relatively few insect pests. Its care is considered difficult because it requires a consistently moist environment and frequent watering. That said, its roots can rot if it is overwatered or kept in poorly ventilated conditions. The swamp umbrella fern is best suited to people with some growing experience, as most people can keep it alive for a certain period. Nevertheless, it may struggle to truly thrive, with leaves drying out and becoming less healthy over time.
How to keep Gleichenia Dicarpa.
Light
The swamp umbrella fern usually does best in filtered light, though it can also grow in somewhat denser shade, reflecting its native swamp environment. Because it doesn't require full sun, it copes with relatively lower light levels. Still, both excessive and insufficient light can impede the plant's growth.
Water
The swamp umbrella fern is well-suited to moist environments and thrives in high humidity and wet conditions. To maintain its moisture, water it twice a week. Being an evergreen fern, it also benefits from regular misting to replicate its tropical habitat.
Temperature
Swamp umbrella fern prospers in forest thickets. It is very sensitive to temperature and humidity; high heat, dry conditions, and strong sunlight can all distress the Swamp umbrella fern. In summer it needs adequate shade and a moist, high-humidity setting. Generally it does not need special care in winter, but an extended winter drought can still kill the plant.
Pruning
The swamp umbrella fern flourishes in wet, boggy environments and is known for its distinctive umbrella-like fronds. For best results, prune the plant in early spring, removing any dead or overcrowded fronds with sterilized tools. This helps maintain healthy growth and enhances the plant's appearance. After pruning, water the fern adequately to support its recovery.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Fern
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Gleichenia
- Family
- Gleicheniaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 8-11
- Mature Height
- 0.91 m to 2.13 m
- Mature Spread
- 0.91 m to 2.13 m
- Leaf Color
- Light Green, Dark Green
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Planting Time
- Spring
- Native Area
- Indonesia, Philippines, New Zealand, Malaysia
Other names.
