Leatherleaf Fern

Leatherleaf Fern Care

Rumohra adiantiformis

What is the plant

Rumohra adiantiformis is a well-known groundcover fern belonging to the Dryopteridaceae family and is native to many countries in South America and Africa, as well as some small islands. Because of its beautiful appearance, the plant has become popular for growing indoors, but the spores can contain toxins that are harmful to animals and humans.

Identify Leatherleaf Fern by its dark green leaves that have small incisions along the entire length and the familiar triangular shape of ferns. It is interesting that the reproductive clusters, better known as sori, grow on the lower part of the leaves. Sori are covered with a special film and a small scale that serves as effective protection.
Leatherleaf Fern grows up to 90 cm (3 ft) tall, and its fronds can be up to 150 cm (5 ft) wide. The roots are long and creeping, thanks to which it effectively absorbs moisture.

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Humidity

High

Lighting

Part Sun

Temperature

15°C - 18°C

Hardiness zone

min 9a

Difficulty

Hard

How to Care for the Plant

Water
Water the plant regularly at the beginning of planting, and after it is established, the watering frequency can be reduced, but do not let it dry out completely, as the plant is not adapted to this.
Pruning
Remove old and affected leaves in the spring to stimulate new growth and improve plant health.
Fertilizer
Once a month during the growing season, use a universal liquid fertilizer.

Disease diagnosis

Check your plant’s health

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Sunlight
Since the plant does not like direct sunlight, it should be placed in partial shade where it can regulate the dose of lighting.
Soil
Almost any type of soil is suitable; the main thing is that it is well-drained and has a large amount of organic matter.
Propagation
With a disinfected blade, cut a healthy cutting from the rhizome up to 12 cm (5 inches) long, then transplant it into a pot with well-drained, slightly moist soil. Spores can also propagate Leatherleaf Fern, but this is less efficient than the first method.

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Temperature
The best temperature for the plant is 64-75˚F (18-24°C) and a humidity level of at least 50%.
Container
Choose a container of any size that has at least one bottom hole for efficient moisture removal.
Fun fact
Rumohra adiantiformis is used to create beautiful bouquets and remains fresh for more than two weeks.