Sword Fern (likely Tuberous Sword Fern)
Nephrolepis cordifolia
A terrestrial or epiphytic fern featuring upright or arching pinnate fronds. The leaflets (pinnae) are narrow, slightly serrated, and arranged alternately along a dark brown, scaly rachis.
- Light
- Partial shade to full shade; prefers bright, indirect light (4-6 hours). Avoid direct afternoon sun which can scorch the fronds.
- Water
- Consistent moisture is key. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Sensitive to drought; fronds will turn brown and crispy if underwatered.
- Growth
- Clumping perennial fern. Spreads via underground rhizomes and tubers. Can reach 2-3 feet in height and width.
Care instructions
Thrives in humid environments with bright indirect light. Keep soil consistently moist but well-drained. Fertilize with a balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength during the growing season.
Growing details
Sunlight
Partial shade to full shade; prefers bright, indirect light (4-6 hours). Avoid direct afternoon sun which can scorch the fronds.
Watering
Consistent moisture is key. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Sensitive to drought; fronds will turn brown and crispy if underwatered.
Soil
Rich, loamy, and well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.5 - 7.0).
Hardiness zone
9-11 (USDA); can be grown indoors as a houseplant in colder climates.
Growth habit
Clumping perennial fern. Spreads via underground rhizomes and tubers. Can reach 2-3 feet in height and width.
Bloom season
Non-flowering; reproduces via spores located in sori on the underside of fronds.
Propagation
Most commonly propagated by dividing the root clump and tubers in spring, or via spores in a controlled environment.
Common pests & issues
Susceptible to spider mites, scale, and mealybugs. Root rot can occur if soil is waterlogged. Low humidity leads to brown tips.
Similar species
Nephrolepis exaltata (Boston Fern) looks very similar but lacks the underground tubers found in N. cordifolia.