Kangaroo Fern
Microsorum pustulatum
Pustulatum
About this plant
Microsorum pustulatum, commonly known as the Kangaroo Fern, is a lush, green fern native to New Zealand. It features long, wavy fronds that resemble kangaroo paws, giving it a unique and attractive appearance. This fern is popular as a houseplant and in shaded gardens for its air-purifying qualities and ease of care.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Microsorum
- Family
- Polypodiaceae
- Higher classification
- Polypodiales (order)
- Plant type
- Houseplant
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- New Zealand
- Distribution
- Native to New Zealand; cultivated worldwide as a houseplant and in shaded gardens.
Care
- Light preference
- Partial shade
- Suitable locations
- Indoor, Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- North-facing, East-facing, Northeast-facing, Northwest-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 3–7 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- 10 °C
- Maximum
- 30 °C
- Optimal
- 15-25 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 9-11
- Soil pH
- 5.5-6.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Soil type
- well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter
Watering. Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Mist leaves occasionally to maintain humidity.
Fertilizing. Feed with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Microsorum pustulatum is a hardy fern that thrives in low to medium light and prefers consistently moist soil. It is easy to care for and does well indoors with moderate humidity. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot, and mist occasionally to maintain humidity.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Division, Cuttings
- Care difficulty
- Easy
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- No
Attractive wavy green fronds with a unique kangaroo paw shape, providing a lush, tropical look.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Non-toxic to humans and pets, making it safe for homes with children and animals.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Skin contact
- Pollen level
- None
Microsorum pustulatum is generally safe for most people and does not commonly cause allergies. However, those sensitive to fern spores might experience mild reactions like sneezing or skin irritation. To reduce exposure, keep the plant in a well-ventilated area and avoid touching the spores directly.
Common problems
Overwatering can cause root rot, while too little humidity may lead to brown leaf tips. Low light might slow growth, and pests like scale insects can occasionally appear.
Uses
Primarily grown as an ornamental houseplant or garden fern for its attractive foliage and air-purifying qualities.
Notes
Prune old or damaged fronds to encourage new growth. Repot every 2-3 years in fresh, well-draining soil. Sensitive to direct sunlight which can scorch leaves.