Actiniopteris australis

Eyelash Fern, Mini Fan Fern

Moderate careLithophyteNon-toxic10–20 cm

A tiny fern endemic to Mauritius and Réunion, with delicate fan-shaped fronds that radiate outward like a miniature palm. It grows only 10–15 cm tall and does best in the stable warmth and humidity of a closed terrarium, where its glossy fronds stay green indefinitely. Despite its small size, it is moderately demanding — sensitive to humidity drops and prone to root rot — so it suits experienced terrarium keepers.

Build a terrarium with this plant
Eyelash Fern image

Care

Light

Indirect light(preferred)Shade tolerant

Humidity

High (60–80%)(preferred)Medium (40–60%)

Temperature

10°C25°C40°C
15°C – 30°C

Soil

Well draining(preferred)RockyPeat moss

Moisture

Moist(preferred)

Soil pH

6 – 7

Appearance

Growth habit

ClumpingUpright

Leaf shape

Fan

Leaf texture

FineGlossy

Distribution

Propagation

Carefully separate rhizome sections, each with fronds still attached. Plant the divisions in moist, well-draining mix and keep humidity high until established. Best done in spring.

References

  1. 1

    Kew Plants of the World Online — Actiniopteris australis

    https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:17008180-1
  2. 2
  3. 3

    GardeningIt — Eyelash Fern

    https://gardeningit.com/eyelash-fern/
  4. 4
  5. 5
  6. 6

    iNaturalist — Actiniopteris australis taxon

    https://www.inaturalist.org/taxa/180681-Actiniopteris-australis