Crocodile Fern

Size

The Crocodile Fern is an easy-care fern that is also a little out of the ordinary. The broad fronds are highly textured, similar to that of a crocodiles skin. Also known as Microsorum musifolium, this fern grows as an understory plant in the jungles of Southeast Asia and Australia and thrives on high humidity. Gardeners in zones 10-11 can add Crocodile Fern to their outdoor displays year-round.Best Locations For Growing Crocodile FernThe high humidity of bathrooms and kitchens suits Crocodile Fern. Regular misting with water or using a humidifier will help keep this plant hydrated in a room with drier conditions. Crocodile Fern Sunlight RequirementsIndirect bright or medium light levels keep the fronds of Crocodile Fern deep green and growing wide. Crocodile Fern CareWithout high humidity, this fern will start to have brown, crispy edges on the fronds. To provide enough moisture, grow it in a humid room such as a bathroom or kitchen. Use a cool mist humidifier in the room during the winter when the air is drier, or mist the fronds lightly each day with water. Keep this fern away from drafts and cold air from exposed windows in the winter. Crocodile Fern prefers temperatures between 68-80 degrees F. Pot Crocodile Fern in a loose, free draining, and nutrient-rich indoor potting soil. Ensure that the container you use has drainage at the bottom and that the plant does not sit in a saucerful of water for long periods. Watering Crocodile FernCrocodile Fern requires consistently moist soil with time to dry between waterings. When the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry, thoroughly soak the container and wait for the excess to drain. Discard any water sitting in the saucer after 10-20 minutes. Watering will need to be done regularly throughout the year.Feeding Crocodile fernA liquid houseplant fertilizer can be applied once a month during active growth in the spring and summer. Use the fertilizer at half the recommended strength to keep from burning the fronds.

Crocodile Fern InformationLight Exposure: Bright Indirect LightCare Requirements: EasyWatering Requirements: Average - Keep lightly moist. When the top 2 inches of the soil dries out.

Pet Friendly: YesKid Friendly: YesAir Purifier: ModerateHabit: ClumpingGrowth Rate: SlowMature Height: 5 feetMature Spread: 16 inchesFlowering: NoFlower Color(s): NoneFlower Shade/Description: Grown for FoliageFragrant: NoFoliage Type: Foliage Color(s): GreenFoliage Description: Broad and Light Green LeavesTemperature: 65 - 75F (18 - 24C)Humidity: Above Average to High (60% - 100%)Common Name: Crocodile FernOther Name(s): Alligator FernScientific Name: Microsorum musifolium 'Crocodyllus'Plant Type: House Plant