Snakeskin Fern

Snakeskin Fern Care

Oleandra Colubrina

What is the plant

A highly sought after fern with attractive glossy strappy leaves which resemble that of a crocodile skin. Its a hardy, easy to grow fern suitable for partly shaded garden beds. Can also be grown as a pot plant on verandas or brightly lit spots indoors.

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Humidity

High

Lighting

Part Sun

Temperature

-20°C - 10°C

Hardiness zone

2 - 6

Difficulty

Easy

Hibernation

Cold Period

Toxicity

Poisonous

How to Care for the Plant

Water
Crocodile ferns love water. Water your plant thoroughly and consistently. When you notice the top of the soil getting dry, water until it drains out of the bottom of the pot. Continue to let the water drain out until it no longer drips to be sure your fern is not sitting in water.
Fertilizer
Properly fertilizing your fern can help keep it healthy and full of foliage. However, too much fertilizer can burn your plant. A diluted water-soluble fertilizer is a good option. You could use a fertilizer that is specifically formulated for ferns. Fertilize once a month during spring and summer to promote healthy growth.
Sunlight
Like most ferns, the crocodile species is naturally found growing under a canopy of trees. Because of this, your plant will like lighting that mimics the dappled, bright, indirect sunlight that they would receive on the forest floor. These plants still need sunlight, just be sure they aren’t getting direct sunlight, like in a window. Too much can burn the leaves.

Disease diagnosis

Check your plant’s health

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Soil
These ferns love rich, moist, well-draining soil.
Temperature
Because this plant is native to the tropics, it does not handle cold weather well. It can be grown outside in zones 10 or 11, but any area colder than that could kill it. Thankfully, this beautiful fern makes a great houseplant. Just be sure to keep it away from drafts, air conditioners, or heating vents.
Container
Crocodile ferns are slow growers, so you won’t need to worry about repotting very often. When you notice the roots getting crammed in its current pot or your fern is top-heavy, you will want to give your plant a bigger pot.

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Additional
Enzootic hematuria, the most common form of bracken fern poisoning, primarily affects cattle and less frequently affects sheep. It is characterized by intermittent hematuria and anemia. Poisoning most often occurs during late summer when other feed is scarce, or when animals are fed hay containing bracken fern.