Hymenophyllum wilsonii

Wilson's Filmy Fern

Expert careEpiphyteNon-toxic3–12 cm

A delicate fern with translucent fronds only one cell thick, giving them a membranous, see-through quality. It belongs to the filmy ferns, a group defined by this ultra-thin leaf structure. Native to the oceanic fringes of western Europe and Macaronesia, it clings to sheltered acidic rocks, cliff faces, and mossy tree trunks in permanently humid ravines. It needs near-100% humidity and cool temperatures, making it one of the more demanding ferns for sealed terrariums, but rewarding for those who can provide stable conditions.

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Wilson's Filmy Fern image

Care

Prefers very high humidity, low light, with 5–18 °C, and reaches 12 cm at maturity.

Light

Shade tolerant(preferred)Indirect light

Humidity

Very high (80%+)(preferred)

Temperature

0°C20°C40°C
5°C – 18°C

Soil

Sphagnum mix(preferred)Peat moss

Moisture

Wet(preferred)Moist

Soil pH

4.5 – 6.5

Propagation

Carefully separate sections of the creeping rhizome with attached fronds. Mount on damp sphagnum or acidic rock in a sealed, high-humidity enclosure. Handle as little as possible — the fronds are extremely fragile.

Native range

Native to Northern Europe, Southwestern Europe, and Macaronesia.

Appearance

Growth habit

Creeping

Leaf shape

Compound

Leaf texture

Fine

Frequently asked

Can Wilson's Filmy Fern grow in a closed terrarium?

Yes. Wilson's Filmy Fern prefers very high (above 80%) humidity, which is what a closed terrarium provides, and tolerates shade-tolerant conditions.

Does Wilson's Filmy Fern need drainage?

Wilson's Filmy Fern prefers a wet substrate. Drainage is helpful but not critical; consistent moisture matters more.

What humidity does Wilson's Filmy Fern need?

Wilson's Filmy Fern does best in very high (above 80%) humidity.

Is Wilson's Filmy Fern pet-safe?

Wilson's Filmy Fern is considered non-toxic to common household pets.

How tall does Wilson's Filmy Fern grow?

Wilson's Filmy Fern typically reaches 3–12 cm at maturity.

How do you propagate Wilson's Filmy Fern?

Wilson's Filmy Fern can be propagated by rhizome division or spores.

References

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