Microsorum Crocodyllus – Crocodile Fern

Microsorum crocodyllus, commonly known as Crocodile Fern, is a unique tropical fern prized for its glossy green foliage and distinctive reptile-like texture. Its long, strap-shaped fronds feature an intricate network of raised veins that resembles the scales of crocodile skin, giving the plant its memorable name. Unlike traditional feathery ferns, Crocodile Fern produces broad, leathery-looking foliage that creates a bold tropical appearance. With its spreading growth habit and unusual leaf texture, this fern brings lush rainforest character to shelves, plant stands, bathrooms, terrariums, and indoor plant collections.

QUICK FACTS

Botanical name: Microsorum musifolium ‘Crocodyllus’
Common name: Crocodile Fern
Pot size: Varies by selection
Growth habit: Spreading, rhizomatous tropical fern
Light: Bright to medium indirect light
Water: Keep lightly moist, allowing the surface of the potting mix to begin drying between waterings
Care level: Moderate
Pet safety: Generally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs

CARE

Light: Provide bright, indirect light for healthy growth and strong foliage development. Medium indirect light is also suitable, although growth may slow. Avoid prolonged direct sunlight, which can scorch the fronds and cause brown patches.

Water: Keep the growing medium lightly and consistently moist, allowing the surface to begin drying before watering again. Water thoroughly, then allow excess water to drain freely. Avoid allowing the root ball to dry completely for extended periods, but never leave the roots sitting in waterlogged soil.

Humidity: Prefers moderate to high humidity, ideally around 50–70% or higher. Increased humidity helps maintain healthy fronds and reduces the likelihood of crispy edges or browning tips. Good airflow is beneficial, especially in humid environments.

Soil: Use a loose, well-draining potting mix that retains some moisture while allowing airflow around the roots. Fine orchid bark, perlite, coco coir, and quality potting media work well. Avoid burying the creeping rhizomes too deeply, as they naturally grow along the surface of the growing medium.

Temperature: Prefers warm conditions around 65–85°F. Protect from cold drafts, air-conditioning vents, and prolonged exposure to temperatures below 55°F.

Fertilizer: Feed lightly with a diluted balanced fertilizer during periods of active growth. Avoid excessive fertilization, as ferns can be sensitive to fertilizer salts.

GROWTH & HABIT

Crocodile Fern is a moderate-growing tropical fern that typically reaches around 12–24 inches tall with a spread of approximately 18–36 inches indoors, depending on growing conditions and container size. Its long, textured fronds emerge from creeping rhizomes that gradually spread outward, creating a full, arching display. As the plant matures, new fronds develop from the expanding rhizomes, giving the fern an increasingly lush appearance. Its broad foliage and spreading habit make it especially attractive in decorative containers, hanging baskets, and elevated plant displays.

PET SAFETY

Pet Safety: Generally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs. Crocodile Fern is not known to contain the toxic compounds associated with many common houseplants. However, species-specific pet toxicity information is limited, so chewing should still be discouraged to prevent potential digestive upset and protect the foliage.

AFTER DELIVERY

Do not repot a freshly shipped plant for at least two weeks after delivery. Repotting during the Blackwater Plants guarantee period voids live plant guarantee coverage.