As of: March 6, 2024, 2:04 p.m
By: Joana Lück
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Researchers recently discovered a “zombie fern” in Panama that feeds itself on dead plant parts.
This is what gardeners can learn from it.
Ferns are not usually considered very impressive plants.
Instead, they have a very calming effect with their evergreen, symmetrically structured leaves and are suitable for both garden planting and as houseplants.
In the latter location, they score points with their air-purifying and humidifying abilities.
But
Cyathea Rojasiana
, the Latin name of the fern species from Central America, makes the familiar ferns look old.
Nitrogen is absorbed from dead leaf fronds
Ferns are around 300 million years old.
© BrianScantlebury/Imago
Panama isn't just home to pumas, crocodiles and exotic birds - the Central American country also has a lot to offer in terms of flora: Professor James Dalling from the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign and his team discovered the “zombie plant”. West of the state.
The plant was named this by botanists because it supplies itself with nutrients from dead leaf fronds.
What is interesting about the process is not only that the fern supplies the mother plant with nitrogen through the dead leaves, but above all that the leaves are not revived and instead remain dried out on the ground, as can be seen from the video clip.
Unfortunately, the plant can only be found in Panama if you have the idea of planting the plant in your garden.
But maybe you like these spooky houseplants.
You can find even more exciting garden topics in the regular newsletter from our partner 24garten.de.
This is what you can learn from the “zombie plant”:
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Dead or wilted leaves from houseplants should always be picked off, as they not only look unsightly but can also be harmful to the plant's health.
However, brown leaves on spring roses can also provide protection from wind and weather.
Add dead or dried leaves from garden or house plants to the compost.
However, make sure that the leaves are free of diseases or pests.
Larger leaves can also be used to protect against frost on the vegetable patch.
Twigs are also used here as brushwood.