Kangaroo Fern
ℹ️ Microsorum diversifolium, Microsorum pustulatum
📝 COMMON NAMES:
Kangaroo Fern, Hound's Tongue, Kangaroo Paw Fern
☠️ Toxicity: Non-toxic to pets and humans
💨 Air-purifying Qualities: Yes
👍 Difficulty Level: Moderate
Kangaroo Fern Care 101
Water
The Kangaroo Fern prefers soil that is evenly moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot. It's advisable to let the top layer of soil dry out slightly between waterings. During the winter, reduce the frequency of watering. Use distilled or rainwater to avoid salt and mineral buildup in the soil.
Light
The Kangaroo Fern thrives best in bright, indirect light but can tolerate some degree of shade. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves. If you're using artificial light, make sure it's bright enough to mimic natural light conditions. During the winter, it may need less light but should still be placed in a well-lit area.
Temperature
This fern prefers a temperature range of 60-75°F (15-24°C). It is not frost-tolerant and should be moved indoors in colder climates. The Kangaroo Fern thrives in high humidity conditions, ideally between 50-70%. If your home's air is dry, consider using a humidity tray or room humidifier. Misting the leaves can also help maintain the required humidity levels.
Fertilizer
A balanced liquid fertilizer can be applied every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Dilute the fertilizer to half the recommended strength to prevent fertilizer burn. During the winter months, reduce fertilizing to every 8-10 weeks or stop altogether. Make sure to water the plant thoroughly before and after applying fertilizer to help it absorb the nutrients better.
Care and Maintenance
🌱 Soil Type and pH: Well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral
💦 Humidity and Misting: High humidity; misting is beneficial
✂️ Pruning: Remove dead or damaged fronds
🧼 Cleaning: Wipe leaves with a damp cloth
🪴 Repotting: When roots outgrow the pot
🔄 Repotting Frequency: Every 2-3 years
❄️ Seasonal Changes in Care: Lower light and water in winter
Growing Characteristics
💥 Growth Speed: Moderate
🔄 Life Cycle: Perennial
💥 Bloom Time: N/A
🌍 Hardiness Zones: 9-11
🗺️ Native Area: Australia, New Zealand
🛌 Hibernation: No
Propagation and Health
📍 Suitable Locations: Indoor spaces, patios, shaded gardens
🌱 Propagation Methods: Division or spores
🐛 Common Pests: Aphids, spider mites, mealybugs
🦠 Possible Diseases: Root rot
Plant Details
🌴 Plant Type: Fern
🍃 Foliage Type: Evergreen
🌿 Color of Leaves: Green
🌸 Flower Color: N/A
🌸 Blooming: Does not bloom
🍪 Edibility: Not edible
📏 Mature Size: Up to 2 feet tall and wide
Taxonomy
👑 Kingdom: Plantae
🎖️ Division: Pteridophyta
🏫 Class: Polypodiopsida
📜 Order: Polypodiales
👪 Family: Polypodiaceae
🌿 Genus: Microsorum
🔬 Species: M. pustulatum
Additional Info
🌻 General Benefits: Air purification
⚕️ Medical Properties: None known
☯️ Feng Shui: Represents growth and new beginnings
✨ Zodiac Sign Compatibility: Cancer
🍀 Symbolism or Folklore: No specific symbolism or folklore
📖 Interesting Facts: Its unique fronds resemble the paws of a kangaroo
Buying and Usage
🛒 What to Look for When Buying: Healthy fronds, no sign of pests or diseases
🌱 Other Uses: Decorative
Decoration and Styling
🖼️ Display Ideas: Hanging baskets, tabletop arrangements
🎨 Styling Tips: Looks great in boho or tropical settings