Microsorum musifolium 'Crocodyllus'

Crocodile Fern, Alligator Fern, Banana-Leaved Fern

Easy careEpiphyteNon-toxic25–90 cm

An epiphytic fern from the tropical forests of Southeast Asia and New Guinea. Its broad, glossy fronds have a network of raised veins that resembles crocodile skin. This cultivar grows bushier and more compact than the wild species while keeping the same distinctive texture. It does best in high humidity with consistent moisture, and works well as a focal plant in large closed terrariums and paludariums.

Build a terrarium with this plant
Crocodile Fern image

Care

Prefers high humidity, indirect light, with 13–28 °C, and reaches 90 cm at maturity.

Light

Indirect light(preferred)Shade tolerantBright indirect

Humidity

High (60–80%)(preferred)Very high (80%+)Medium (40–60%)

Temperature

10°C25°C40°C
13°C – 28°C

Soil

Moisture retentive(preferred)Orchid mixPeat moss

Moisture

Moist(preferred)

Soil pH

6 – 7

Propagation

Divide the semi-woody rhizomes in spring or early summer. Each section needs to be at least 8 cm long with two to four fronds attached. Plant shallowly in moist substrate and keep humidity high until established.

Native range

Native to Indo-China, Malesia, and Papuasia.

Appearance

Growth habit

CreepingClumping

Leaf shape

Strap

Leaf texture

LeatheryGlossy

Frequently asked

Can Crocodile Fern grow in a closed terrarium?

Yes. Crocodile Fern prefers high (60–80%) humidity, which is what a closed terrarium provides, and tolerates indirect-light-loving conditions.

Does Crocodile Fern need drainage?

Crocodile Fern prefers a moist substrate. Drainage is helpful but not critical; consistent moisture matters more.

What humidity does Crocodile Fern need?

Crocodile Fern does best in high (60–80%) humidity.

Is Crocodile Fern pet-safe?

Crocodile Fern is considered non-toxic to common household pets.

How tall does Crocodile Fern grow?

Crocodile Fern typically reaches 25–90 cm at maturity.

How do you propagate Crocodile Fern?

Crocodile Fern can be propagated by rhizome division or spores.

References

  1. 1

    Kew Plants of the World Online — Microsorum musifolium (Blume) Copel.

    https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:17341220-1
  2. 2
  3. 3

    Terrarium Tribe — Crocodile Fern (Microsorum musifolium)

    https://terrariumtribe.com/terrarium-plants/microsorum-musifolium-crocodile-fern/
  4. 4

    NC Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox — Microsorum musifolium

    https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/microsorum-musifolium/
  5. 5

    Bantam.earth — Crocodile Fern (Microsorum musifolium 'Crocodyllus') Vivarium Guide

    https://bantam.earth/crocodile-fern-microsorum-musifolium-crocodyllus/
  6. 6

    Missouri Botanical Garden Plant Finder — Microsorum musifolium

    https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=e955