Reticulated Leather Fern, Microsorum linguiforme
You will receive a fresh rhizome cutting with at least 6 leaves with adventitious aerial roots.
Adventitious aerial roots are roots that grow from the stem or other above ground, non-root tissues of a plant, rather than from the main root system.These specialized roots can absorb moisture and nutrients from the air, provide anchorage to the support plant, and even facilitate propagation or photosynthesis.
Microsorum linguiforme is a tropical epiphytic fern native to New Zealand and parts of the Pacific. It is appreciated for its beautiful green leathery fronds and ease of care. Spectacular reticulate venation is a prize attribute of this amazing fern. Fronds often stay under 2″ long in the terrarium, but can reach up to 4″ long in pots inside green house conditions.
1. Light Requirements
- Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate low light conditions.
- Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.
2. Watering
- Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Water when the top 1 inch of soil feels dry.
- Use distilled or rainwater if possible, as this fern is sensitive to chemicals in tap water.
- Reduce watering in winter when growth slows.
3. Humidity & Temperature
- Thrives in high humidity above 50% ideal for terrariums.
- Prefers temperatures between 60-80°F (16-27°C). Avoid cold drafts and sudden temperature changes.
4. Soil & Placement in Terrarium
- Use a well-draining, loose, and airy mix, such as a blend of peat moss, orchid bark, and perlite.
- Also moist sphagnum is ideal to facilitate root growth and to launch spreading to wood, branches, or ground, as the roots are not deep.
5. Fertilizing
- Feed with a liquid organic orchid fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to leaf burn.
6. Pruning & Maintenance
- Trim dead or damaged fronds to encourage new growth.
7. Propagation
- Can be propagated through rhizome division.
- Gently separate a section with at least a few fronds and roots, then place on moist sphagnum moss to facilitate root growth.
