Polypodiaceae
Crocodile Fern: Air Purifying Plant
Microsorum musifolium
This fern thrives in humid environments and indirect light, requiring regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged.
Every 7 days
Partial shade
18° - 30°C
50% - 80%
Categories
What is Crocodile Fern?
Crocodile Fern (Microsorum musifolium) is a medium-care plant from the Polypodiaceae family. Microsorum musifolium, commonly known as the Crocodile Fern, is a lush tropical plant native to Southeast Asia and Australia. Its unique fronds, featuring a texture reminiscent of crocodile skin, are its most striking feature. With its vibrant green color and elongated, wavy shape, it is an excellen...
Crocodile Fern grows up to 90cm, with spread of 60cm, watering every 7 days, 18°C â 30°C, 50â80% humidity. It is suitable for indoor environments and not safe for pets.
Care Guide
How to Water
Keep the soil moist but avoid waterlogging. Check the soil moisture every few days and water when the top 1 inch (2-3 cm) feels dry. Increase watering frequency in warmer weather and decrease it during winter.
Lighting
Prefers bright to medium indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the fronds. A spot near an east- or north-facing window is ideal.
Ideal Soil
Use a well-draining substrate rich in organic matter, such as a fern or orchid potting mix, to ensure proper aeration and moisture retention.
Recommended Pot
A pot with good drainage is essential to prevent root rot. Ceramic or plastic pots are suitable, provided they have drainage holes.
Care Schedule
Fertilize
Every 14 days
Misting
Every 3 days
Rotate
Every 7 days
Repot
Every 365 days
About Crocodile Fern
Microsorum musifolium, commonly known as the Crocodile Fern, is a lush tropical plant native to Southeast Asia and Australia. Its unique fronds, featuring a texture reminiscent of crocodile skin, are its most striking feature. With its vibrant green color and elongated, wavy shape, it is an excellent choice for adding an exotic and natural touch to any indoor space or shaded outdoor area.
How to Propagate
Rhizome Division
- Ensure each division has enough roots and fronds to survive.
- Maintain high humidity for the new plants.
- Avoid dividing very young or unhealthy plants.
- 1 Remove the plant from the pot
Carefully remove the fern from the pot, shaking off excess soil from the roots.
- 2 Divide the rhizome
Identify sections of the rhizome with several healthy fronds and roots. Use a sharp, sterilized knife to cut the rhizome into sections.
- 3 Plant the divisions
Plant each section in a new pot with fresh, well-draining substrate, ensuring the rhizome sits slightly above the soil line.
- 4 Water and care
Water thoroughly after planting and keep the new plants in a high-humidity area with indirect light until they become established.
Materials needed:
Characteristics
Max height
90cm
Spread
60cm
Growth rate
Medium
Foliage
Evergreen
Warning: Toxic Plant
This plant can be toxic if ingested. Keep out of reach of:
Plant Uses
Ornamental
Great for decoration
Is your plant showing symptoms?
Click on the symptom to discover possible causes:
Compare with similar plants
| Attribute | Difficulty | Light | Watering | Pet Safe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flamingo Flower | Medium | Partial shade | 5d | â ïļ |
| Prayer Plant | Medium | Partial shade | 3d | â |
| Mandevilla | Medium | Bright indirect | 7d | â ïļ |
| Boston Fern | Medium | Partial shade | 3d | â |
