Tongue Fern 'Obake' (Pyrrosia lingua 'Obake')

Overview

'Obake' is a cultivar of Tongue Fern (Pyrrosia lingua) with uniquely twisted and contorted fronds, giving a ghostly, monstrous appearance (obake means ghost/monster in Japanese).

Taxonomy

Description

Fronds are simple, lanceolate, but twisted, curled, and irregularly contorted. The underside has the typical rusty-brown indumentum. The plant forms a curious, sculptural clump.

Habitat and Cultivation

Epiphytic or lithophytic. Mount on bark or grow in coarse mix. Bright indirect light, moderate humidity. Allow to dry slightly between waterings. A conversation piece for collectors.