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PlantSnap
Plant Care
Chinese bristle fern
(Odontosoria chinensis)
Also Known As
Chinese bristle fern, Chinese sword fern, False tree fern
About This Plant
Odontosoria chinensis is a species of fern that belongs to the family Lomariopsidaceae. It is a small to medium-sized fern that grows up to 1.5 feet (45 cm) tall and has dark green fronds that are triangular in shape. It is a slow-growing fern that can live for many years.
Plant Care Instructions
Outdoor Size Range
12-18 inches (30-45 cm)
Light Requirements
Odontosoria chinensis prefers bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can burn the fronds.
Humidity Needs
This fern prefers high humidity levels, between 50-80%. Mist the fronds regularly or place a humidifier nearby.
Fertilizing Schedule
Fertilize the fern once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer.
Pruning Guidelines
Remove any yellow or brown fronds as they appear. Trim back any overgrown fronds to maintain the plant's shape.
Common Pests and Diseases
Common pests for Odontosoria chinensis include spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. Diseases that can affect this fern include root rot and leaf spot.
Indoor Size Range
6-12 inches (15-30 cm)
Watering Schedule
Water the fern when the top inch of soil is dry. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
Temperature Range
Odontosoria chinensis prefers temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C). Avoid exposing it to temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Growing Season
The growing season for Odontosoria chinensis is spring and summer.
Growing Difficulty Level
Odontosoria chinensis is considered moderately difficult to grow. It requires consistent care and attention to thrive.
USDA Hardiness Zones
Odontosoria chinensis is not a cold-hardy plant and is not suitable for outdoor growing in USDA hardiness zones below 9a.
Did You Know?
The name 'Odontosoria' comes from the Greek words 'odontos', meaning tooth, and 'soros', meaning heap, referring to the tooth-like shape of the sori (spore-producing structures) on the underside of the fronds.
