Korean Mountain Fern Synurus excelsus

Water

The Udo plant, commonly known as Synurus excelsus, should be watered thoroughly yet infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. In general, watering once a week is sufficient, but this may vary depending on the humidity and temperature of the growing environment. When watering, use enough water so that it runs out of the drainage holes, which might be approximately a gallon for a large plant. During the active growing season in spring and summer, the Udo plant may need more frequent watering, while in fall and winter, less water may be required.

Light

Udo plants prefer bright, indirect light but can tolerate some shade. They should not be placed in direct sunlight, which can scorch their leaves. A spot near a window with a sheer curtain or somewhere that receives dappled sunlight is ideal for this plant.

Temperature

Udo plants thrive in a temperate climate with temperatures ranging between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. They should be protected from temperatures below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, which can damage the plant. The ideal temperature range for optimal Udo plant growth is between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

Pruning

Pruning the Udo plant encourages healthy growth and prevents it from becoming leggy. Trim back the stems and remove any dead or yellowing leaves as needed, usually once during the spring or early summer. Regular pruning also helps maintain an attractive shape and can stimulate the growth of new foliage on the plant.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The Japanese silverleaf sunflower thrives best in a soil mix that is rich in organic matter, well-draining, and has a slightly acidic to neutral pH ranging from 5.5 to 7.0. A mixture of loam, peat, and perlite or sand can create an ideal growing medium, ensuring the roots have adequate aeration and moisture without becoming waterlogged.

Repotting

Japanese silverleaf sunflowers should be repotted every two to three years to refresh the soil and accommodate growth. It is best to repot in spring or early summer when the plant is entering a period of active growth.

Humidity & Misting

Japanese silverleaf sunflowers prefer a moderate humidity level, ideally between 40-60%. If the air is too dry, especially indoors, using a humidifier or pebble tray can help increase humidity around the plant.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Keep in bright, indirect light with moderate humidity.

• Outdoor

  Place in partial shade, protect from strong winds.

• Hardiness zone

  5-9 USDA

Life cycle

The plant Synurus excelsus, commonly known as Korean mountain fern, originates as a spore that germinates in a suitable environment to form a small, heart-shaped gametophyte. The gametophyte, through sexual reproduction, develops sex organs that produce eggs and sperm. Upon fertilization, a zygote is formed, which then grows into the sporophyte - the dominant and recognizable phase of the fern with fronds. The sporophyte matures and develops sori on the underside of its fronds, which contain spore-producing structures called sporangia. When mature, the sporangia release spores, completing the life cycle of the plant as these spores disperse to grow into new gametophytes. This cycle of spore to gametophyte to sporophyte repeats, allowing the Korean mountain fern to perpetuate and spread within its environment.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to Summer

• Synurus excelsus, commonly known as the Korean mountain fern, is often propagated by spores, which are the most popular method for this fern species. The optimal time to collect spores for propagation is during the late summer months when they naturally mature. To propagate Korean mountain fern by spores, one starts by collecting the spore-laden fronds and gently tapping them over a piece of paper to release the spores. The spores are then sown on the surface of a sterile, moist potting mix, ideally kept at a temperature around 68 degrees Fahrenheit (20 degrees Celsius). The container should be covered with a lid or plastic wrap to maintain high humidity and placed in indirect light. It's essential to keep the soil evenly moist without being waterlogged, as fern spores are highly susceptible to drying out. In several weeks to months, the spores will germinate and develop into a green film of tiny prothallus, which will eventually give rise to new fern plants.