Water
Keep the substrate consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top layer of soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering during cooler months to prevent root rot.
Good drainage is crucial to avoid fungal diseases.
Also known as Psilotum · Skeleton Fork Fern
Whisk Fern (Psilotum nudum) is a primitive, ancient vascular plant with unique dichotomously branched stems and terminal sporangia.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, indirect
50% intensity
Prefers shaded conditions or bright, filtered light. Direct sun can scorch the delicate stems.
Consistent moisture
75% intensity
Avoid waterlogged conditions; allow slight drying between waterings.
Well-draining, humus-rich soil.
50% intensity
Moderate to warm
50% intensity
Ideal temperatures range from 18-25°C. Protect from frost and extreme temperature fluctuations.
Indoor, Outdoor
50% intensity
Low
25% intensity
Feed sparingly during the growing season with a diluted balanced liquid fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep the substrate consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top layer of soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering during cooler months to prevent root rot.
Good drainage is crucial to avoid fungal diseases.
Pruning is generally not required for Psilotum nudum, as it maintains a natural, architectural form. If any stems become damaged or unsightly, they can be trimmed back to the substrate level.
This encourages new growth from the rhizomes.
Propagation is primarily achieved through division of the rhizomes during repotting. Spores can also be used, but this method is slow and requires specialized conditions mimicking their natural habitat, making it less practical for home growers.
Repot Psilotum nudum every 2-3 years or when the rhizomes begin to fill the pot. Use a well-draining, airy potting mix, such as a blend of peat moss, perlite, and orchid bark. Repot in spring when new growth is emerging.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Whisk Fern (Psilotum nudum)
Where Whisk Fern (Psilotum nudum) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Psilotales |
| Family | Psilotaceae |
| Genus | Psilotum |
| Species | Psilotum nudum |
Similar in genus Psilotum
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
