Nephrolepis cordifolia

Tuberous Sword Fern, Lemon Button Fern, Fishbone Fern, Ladder Fern, Erect Sword Fern

Easy careTerrestrialNon-toxic30–90 cm

A hardy fern with graceful arching fronds and rounded pinnae, native from tropical Africa through Asia to Australia and the Pacific. Unusually tough for a fern — it can tolerate dry spells, poor soil, and even full sun — yet it does well in the humid, shaded conditions of a closed terrarium. The compact 'Duffii' (Lemon Button) cultivar is popular for smaller builds.

Build a terrarium with this plant
Tuberous Sword Fern image

Care

Prefers high humidity, indirect light, with 15–27 °C, and reaches 90 cm at maturity.

Light

Indirect light(preferred)Bright indirectShade tolerant

Humidity

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

Temperature

10°C25°C40°C
15°C – 27°C

Soil

Well draining(preferred)LoamyPeat moss

Moisture

Moist(preferred)

Soil pH

5.5 – 7

Propagation

Divide the root ball into sections during spring repotting, making sure each division has fronds and roots attached. Pot into fresh well-draining mix and keep moist. The most straightforward method for home growers.

Native range

Native to West-Central Tropical Africa, Western Indian Ocean, China, Eastern Asia, Indian Subcontinent, Indo-China, Malesia, Papuasia, Australia, and Southwestern Pacific.

Appearance

Growth habit

ClumpingUpright

Leaf shape

Compound

Leaf texture

Feathery

Frequently asked

Can Tuberous Sword Fern grow in a closed terrarium?

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

Does Tuberous Sword Fern need drainage?

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

What humidity does Tuberous Sword Fern need?

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

Is Tuberous Sword Fern pet-safe?

Tuberous Sword Fern is considered non-toxic to common household pets.

How tall does Tuberous Sword Fern grow?

Tuberous Sword Fern typically reaches 30–90 cm at maturity.

How do you propagate Tuberous Sword Fern?

Tuberous Sword Fern can be propagated by division or runners or spores.

References

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    NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox

    https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/nephrolepis-cordifolia/
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