🌿 Microsorum scandens – Fragrant Fern Care Sheet
(Not to be confused with Microsorum musifolium or Microsorum pteropus)
🌱 Overview
Common Name: Fragrant Fern
Family: Polypodiaceae
Native Range: Australia, New Zealand
Growth Type: Rhizomatous fern – creeping, semi-epiphytic
Fragrance?: Subtle earthy scent from crushed rhizomes — not showy or floral
🌿 Terrarium Care
| Factor | Recommended Range / Notes |
|---|---|
| Lighting | Low to medium indirect light; avoid direct sun in closed setups |
| Humidity | 60–95% ideal – thrives in humid conditions |
| Temperature | 18–26°C; stable indoor temperatures preferred |
| Airflow | Needs some ventilation to avoid mold – best in semi-closed systems |
| Substrate | Moist, well-draining epiphyte mix or loose mossy substrate |
| Watering | Keep consistently moist but not soggy; water when top moss just dries |
| Placement | Mid-terrarium or climbing driftwood; rhizomes can attach to hardscape |
| Growth Rate | Moderate – creeps slowly via rhizomes |
| Trimming | Occasional pruning keeps it compact; remove old fronds at base |
🏡 Houseplant Care
| Light | Bright, indirect light or dappled sun; tolerates medium indoor light |
| Humidity | Prefers humidity >50% – mist in dry seasons or use pebble tray |
| Potting Mix | Loose fern mix or orchid bark + peat + perlite |
| Container | Shallow pots or mounted on bark/wood; rhizome must sit above soil |
| Watering | Water when top 2–3 cm of substrate feels dry; do not allow to dry out |
| Feeding | Monthly weak liquid fertilizer in spring/summer |
| Toxicity | Non-toxic to pets (👍 for cat/dog households) |
🔁 Propagation
Rhizome division — cut and replant segments with at least 1–2 fronds and healthy roots
Easy to mount on bark slabs, cork, or driftwood for naturalistic displays
⚠️ Watch For:
| Issue | Cause / Fix |
|---|---|
| Browning frond tips | Low humidity or inconsistent watering |
| Rhizome rot | Rhizome buried or sitting in soggy soil – keep it exposed |
| Pale leaves | Too much direct sun or nutrient deficiency |
| Slow growth / dieback | Overwatering or cold shock |
✅ Summary
| Feature | Rating / Note |
|---|---|
| Terrarium Use | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Perfect for high humidity, naturalistic setups |
| Houseplant Use | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ Easy indoors with stable moisture |
| Maintenance | ⭐⭐☆☆☆ Low fuss, occasional pruning |
| Display Role | Groundcover or epiphytic creeper |
| Special Appeal | Subtle scent, soft texture, and lush green fronds |