Taxonomy

Division:

Pteridophyta | - Ferns

Family:

Aspleniaceae

Genus:

Thelypteris

Species:

Thelypteris balbisii

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Forb/herb

Height:

1-2 ft

Light Requirements:

Part Shade

Drought Tolerance:

Medium

Bloom Months:

may

Ground Cover:

Yes

Native Range

United States: Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands

Keystone Species Ranking

Caterpillar Keystone:

★★★★★ Based on number of butterfly and moth species using this genus as host plant (Source: National Wildlife Federation)

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

rich, well-drained loamy soil

pH:

5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

good drainage required

Moisture:

consistently moist

Notes:

Prefers shaded, humid environments