Overview
Microlepia hirta is a clump forming ferns in the genus Microlepia, part of the Dennstaedtiaceae family, with semi evergreen foliage. Microlepia hirta grows best in partial shade, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include houseplants and conservatory and greenhouse.
About
Microlepia hirta is a clump-forming fern cultivar in the Dennstaedtiaceae family, valued for its semi-evergreen foliage. It thrives in partial shade, ideally in east- or west-facing, sheltered locations. This cultivar prefers fertile, moist but well-drained loam soil with a neutral pH. Suitable for cultivation in the UK under H4 hardiness, it is often grown as a houseplant or in conservatories and greenhouses. Interest in its foliage is maintained through spring and summer. Propagation is typically by division in spring or by sowing spores.
About the genus
Microlepia is a genus of ferns in the family Dennstaedtiaceae described as a genus in 1836. Most of the species are native to Asia, with many endemic to China, although a few species occur also in Australia, Africa, the West Indies, Latin America, and various oceanic islands.Species
Wikipedia contributors, "Microlepia", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Microlepia
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Microlepia
- Sunlight
- Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Microlepia hirta size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Ferns
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Foliage
- Semi evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Houseplants, Conservatory and greenhouse
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Microlepia hirta
- Propagation
- Division in spring, sowing spores
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Microlepia hirta?
Microlepia hirta prefers partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Microlepia hirta need?
Microlepia hirta grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Microlepia hirta hardy in the UK?
Microlepia hirta has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.
How do I propagate Microlepia hirta?
Division in spring, sowing spores.
