Species kangaroo fern
glossy, green, lanceolate leaves with green stems

kangaroo fern

Phymatosorus diversifolius

Kangaroo fern (Phymatosorus diversifolius) is an evergreen epiphyte native to Australia. It is a vining plant with glossy, light green fronds, that are divided at intervals, giving the fern an attractive, feathery appearance. The new fronds have an purple-brown hue and gradually turn green as they mature. This fern grows best in bright, indirect sunlight and it requires well draining soil and adequate humidity to thrive. When kept properly watered in high humidity environments, Kangaroo ferns can grow over two feet in length.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Cutting,Spore Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

10 - 11

Flowers:

Flowers

Sun:

part shade,full shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,red,yellow,orange

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Tropical:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

The Kangaroo Fern should be watered moderately and consistently. The soil should remain lightly moist, not sodden and not bone dry. Water about once a week, perhaps more in dry, hot, or sunny conditions, but if the soil remains too moist for too long the plant can suffer from root rot. If the leaves are starting to wilt or droop, you should check the moisture and water if needed. During the growing season, generally from late winter through fall, in hotter climates the Kangaroo Fern may need weekly watering. In cooler months, it might require water only once every 2 to 4 weeks.

sunlight

Kangaroo Fern (Phymatosorus diversifolius) prefers bright but indirect sunlight. This plant species should be placed in an area that gets about 4 hours of morning sunlight per day and also near a window that gets some afternoon light. During the summer months, when the days are longer, providing up to 6 hours of direct sunlight can be beneficial. Avoid exposing this fern to direct, hot sunlight as this could lead to burning or scorching of the fronds. In addition, be sure to monitor light levels in the winter months to ensure that the plant is getting sufficient light.

pruning

The Kangaroo Fern (Phymatosorus diversifolius) should be pruned once a year, preferably in late winter. During this period, the plant should be lightly pruned to remove dead, damaged or overgrown fronds. Also, any damaged, overgrown, diseased or poor-quality stems should be removed. It is important to keep in mind that the plant should not be pruned too heavily, as this may damage the plant.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Kangaroo ferns typically flower in the spring months of April and May.

Hardiness Map