Crocodile Fern
Microsorum musifolium 'Crocydyllus'
Crocydyllus
About this plant
Microsorum musifolium 'Crocydyllus', commonly known as the Crocodile Fern, is a striking fern with thick, textured leaves that resemble crocodile skin. It is popular as a decorative houseplant due to its unique foliage and easy care. This fern adds a tropical feel to indoor spaces and is often used in terrariums or as a tabletop plant.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Microsorum
- Family
- Polypodiaceae
- Higher classification
- Polypodiales
- Plant type
- Houseplant
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Southeast Asia
- Distribution
- Cultivated worldwide as a houseplant, originally native to Southeast Asia.
Care
- Light preference
- Partial shade
- Suitable locations
- Indoor, Greenhouse, Balcony
- Preferred window facing
- East-facing, North-facing, Northeast-facing, Northwest-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 3–7 days
- Humidity
- High
- Minimum
- 10 °C
- Maximum
- 30 °C
- Optimal
- 18-24 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 10-12
- Soil pH
- 5.5-6.5
- Soil type
- well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter
Watering. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Mist regularly to maintain humidity, especially in dry indoor environments.
Fertilizing. Feed the plant with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing in winter when growth slows down.
This fern is quite tough and easy to care for. It prefers indirect light and moist soil but can tolerate some neglect. Avoid overwatering to prevent root problems. Regular misting helps keep humidity levels comfortable for the plant.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Division
- Care difficulty
- Easy
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- No
Thick, leathery, dark green leaves with a distinctive crocodile-like pattern and texture.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Non-toxic to humans and pets, safe to keep around children and animals.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Skin contact
- Pollen level
- None
Microsorum musifolium 'Crocydyllus' is generally safe for most people and does not produce airborne pollen that causes allergies. However, some individuals with sensitive skin might experience mild irritation if they touch the plant's leaves or sap. To reduce any risk, avoid direct skin contact or wear gloves when handling the plant.
Common problems
If overwatered, the roots may rot and leaves can turn yellow. Too little light can cause slow growth and dull leaf color. Dry air may lead to brown leaf tips.
Uses
Primarily grown as an ornamental houseplant for its unique foliage and air-purifying qualities.
Notes
Prune any dead or yellowing fronds to keep the plant healthy. Repot every 2-3 years in fresh soil to encourage growth. Sensitive to cold drafts and temperatures below 10°C (50°F).