Thelypteris urbanii
Thelypteris urbanii
Urban's maiden fern
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Taxonomy
Family Thelypteridaceae · Genus Thelypteris
Common Names
Urban's maiden fern
Context
nativeRegion
Caribbean (Greater Antilles, including Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands), Central America, and parts of northern South America.
usdaZones
9-11
companionPlants
Begonia, Calathea, Adiantum (Maidenhair ferns), Impatiens
culturalUses
Primarily ornamental; valued in shade gardens and naturalistic plantings for its fine-textured foliage. No widely recognized culinary or medicinal uses.
Care
Care Requirements
LightPrefers partial to full shade, avoiding direct sun.
WateringKeep consistently moist, avoiding waterlogged conditions.
SoilThrives in rich, humus-heavy, well-draining soils with good organic matter.
FertilizerMinimal; occasional feeding with diluted balanced fertilizer during growing season if soil is poor.
HumidityRequires high humidity; protect from dry indoor air if grown inside.
TemperatureBest grown in mild, frost-free climates; optimal 15-25°C (59-77°F).
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitTerrestrial, rhizomatous fern with a clumping habit.
Mature SizeTypically 30-60 cm (12-24 inches) tall and wide.
Growth RateModerate growth rate under ideal conditions.
BloomingAs a fern, does not flower; reproduces via spores.
DormancyMay experience slower growth during cooler or dry periods, but not truly dormant.
Propagation
MethodsDivision of rhizomes, Spores
DifficultyModerate; division is easier than spore propagation.
Best SeasonSpring or early summer for division; spores can be sown in spring.
Maintenance & Notes
PruningRemove dead or damaged fronds as needed to encourage new growth.
RepottingEvery 2-3 years or when crowded; refresh soil at that time.
Pests & DiseasesGenerally pest-resistant; occasionally susceptible to scale insects, spider mites, and root rot if overwatered.
ToxicityNot known to be toxic to humans or pets.
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