Microsorum musifolium 'Crocodyllus'

Crocodile Fern, Alligator Fern, Banana-Leaved Fern

Easy careEpiphyteNon-toxic2590 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

Light

Indirect light(preferred)Shade tolerantBright indirect

Humidity

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

Temperature

10°C25°C40°C
13°C28°C

Soil

Moisture retentive(preferred)Orchid mixPeat moss

Moisture

Moist(preferred)

Soil pH

6 – 7

Appearance

Growth habit

CreepingClumping

Leaf shape

Strap

Leaf texture

LeatheryGlossy

Distribution

Propagation

Spore propagation is possible but rarely successful in home or vivarium settings. Rhizome division is a more reliable approach.

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