Alsophila acaulis
Alsophila acaulis | |
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Scientific classification | |
Kingdom: | Plantae |
Clade: | Tracheophytes |
Division: | Polypodiophyta |
Class: | Polypodiopsida |
Order: | Cyatheales |
Family: | Cyatheaceae |
Genus: | Alsophila |
Species: | A. acaulis
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Binomial name | |
Alsophila acaulis Makino[1]
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Synonyms[1] | |
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Alsophila acaulis, synonyms Alsophila denticulata and Cyathea hancockii, is a species of tree fern native to the Ryukyu Islands, Japan, Taiwan and Hong Kong. The specific epithet hancockii commemorates (1847-1914), who collected numerous plants in Japan, China and Southeast Asia. It grows in forest, on stream banks, and in forest margins at an elevation of about 600 m or higher.[2] As of August 2021, Plants of the World Online treated this species under the name Alsophila denticulata.[3]
Description[]
The trunk of the Alsophila acaulis plant is either prostrate or short and erect. Fronds may be bi- or tripinnate and up to 1.5 m in length. Characteristically of this species, the lowest pinnae are usually reduced. The rachis and stipe are glossy, brown to purple-dark brown in colouration, and bear scales and hairs on the upper surface. These scales are brown, linear and have rounded bases. Sori occur in two rows, one on either side of the pinnule midvein, and lack indusia.[2]
Cultivation[]
Alsophila acaulis has entered cultivation although it is still very rare. This species may survive light frosts, but should ideally be grown in rich humus and under shelter. Plants need to be watered well and provided with a consistent supply moisture.
References[]
- ^ Jump up to: a b Hassler, Michael (2004–2021), "Genus Alsophila R.Br.", World Ferns. Synonymic Checklist and Distribution of Ferns and Lycophytes of the World. Version 12.3, retrieved 2021-08-05CS1 maint: date format (link)
- ^ Jump up to: a b Large, Mark F. & Braggins, John E. (2004). Tree Ferns. Timber Press. p. 139. ISBN 978-0-88192-630-9.
- ^ "Alsophila denticulata Baker", Plants of the World Online, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, retrieved 2021-08-05
- Alsophila (plant)
- Ferns of Asia
- Flora of Hong Kong
- Flora of Japan
- Flora of Taiwan
- Flora of the Ryukyu Islands
- Garden plants of Asia
- Ornamental trees
- Plants described in 1909