Polypodiaceae
Microsorum diversifolium
Bring home the sculptural greenery everyone asks about. Kangaroo Paw Fern delivers a dramatic, antler-like silhouette with surprisingly easy care—just bright filtered light, a well-draining mix, and steady moisture. A standout choice for modern interiors, reception areas, and anyone who wants a tropical statement plant that stays reliably beautiful.
1. Basic Identification
Common Name: Kangaroo Paw Fern
Botanical Name: Microsorum diversifolium
Former Name: Phymatosorus diversifolius
Plant Type: Fern (Houseplant)
Plant Code / SKU: PLT-0008
Alternative Names:
Native Kangaroo Paw Fern
Phymatosorus diversifolius
قرن الغزال
2. Taxonomy & Classification
Order: Polypodiales
Family: Polypodiaceae
Genus: Microsorum
3. Origin & Distribution
Native to eastern Australia (Queensland and New South Wales), where it grows as an epiphyte on tree trunks and on rocky outcrops in subtropical and tropical forests. Widely cultivated and naturalized in warm, humid regions worldwide.
4. Visual Characteristics
Fronds: Pinnatifid, glossy green fronds with lobed margins resembling kangaroo paws or antlers.
Rhizomes: Creeping, brown, hairy scales.
Texture: Smooth, glossy foliage emerging in arching clumps.
5. Size & Dimensions
Mature frond length: 30–60 cm; frond width: 10–15 cm.
Overall clump height: up to 60 cm; spread: up to 80 cm, depending on pot size and division.
6. Light Requirements
Bright, indirect light is ideal. Tolerates moderate to low light but avoid direct sun, which can scorch fronds.
7. Watering Needs
Maintain evenly moist soil; water when the top 2–3 cm of soil begins to dry. Increase frequency in warm months and reduce slightly in cooler months. Do not allow to dry out completely.
8. Soil & Potting
Use a well-draining, peat-based or orchid-bark mix amended with perlite. Rich in organic matter. Repot every 2–3 years in spring when root-bound.
9. Temperature & Humidity
Optimal temperature: 15–27 °C; minimum 10 °C. Prefers high humidity (above 50%). Mist regularly or use a pebble tray or humidifier to maintain moisture.
10. Fertilization
Feed with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) at half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Cease fertilization in autumn and winter.
11. Maintenance & Care Level
Care level: Easy to moderate. Remove yellow or damaged fronds at the base to encourage healthy new growth. Monitor humidity and watering to prevent brown tips.
12. Growth & Propagation
Propagate by dividing rhizomes in spring: separate healthy segments with at least two fronds and replant in fresh mix. Propagation by spores is rare in cultivation.
13. Common Problems
Brown tips – low humidity, fluoride in water, or underwatering.
Yellowing fronds – overwatering or poor drainage.
Pests – scale, mealybugs, spider mites; treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Root rot – from waterlogged soil.
14. Benefits & Uses
Provides lush, architectural foliage for indoor displays, terrariums, and hanging baskets. Enhances air quality by removing pollutants. Ideal for adding tropical flair to modern interiors and reception areas.
15. Toxicity & Safety
Non-toxic to cats and dogs (according to the ASPCA). Safe for homes with pets and children.
Microsorum diversifolium
Bring home the sculptural greenery everyone asks about. Kangaroo Paw Fern delivers a dramatic, antler-like silhouette with surprisingly easy care—just bright filtered light, a well-draining mix, and steady moisture. A standout choice for modern interiors, reception areas, and anyone who wants a tropical statement plant that stays reliably beautiful.
1. Basic Identification
Common Name: Kangaroo Paw Fern
Botanical Name: Microsorum diversifolium
Former Name: Phymatosorus diversifolius
Plant Type: Fern (Houseplant)
Plant Code / SKU: PLT-0008
Alternative Names:
Native Kangaroo Paw Fern
Phymatosorus diversifolius
قرن الغزال
2. Taxonomy & Classification
Order: Polypodiales
Family: Polypodiaceae
Genus: Microsorum
3. Origin & Distribution
Native to eastern Australia (Queensland and New South Wales), where it grows as an epiphyte on tree trunks and on rocky outcrops in subtropical and tropical forests. Widely cultivated and naturalized in warm, humid regions worldwide.
4. Visual Characteristics
Fronds: Pinnatifid, glossy green fronds with lobed margins resembling kangaroo paws or antlers.
Rhizomes: Creeping, brown, hairy scales.
Texture: Smooth, glossy foliage emerging in arching clumps.
5. Size & Dimensions
Mature frond length: 30–60 cm; frond width: 10–15 cm.
Overall clump height: up to 60 cm; spread: up to 80 cm, depending on pot size and division.
6. Light Requirements
Bright, indirect light is ideal. Tolerates moderate to low light but avoid direct sun, which can scorch fronds.
7. Watering Needs
Maintain evenly moist soil; water when the top 2–3 cm of soil begins to dry. Increase frequency in warm months and reduce slightly in cooler months. Do not allow to dry out completely.
8. Soil & Potting
Use a well-draining, peat-based or orchid-bark mix amended with perlite. Rich in organic matter. Repot every 2–3 years in spring when root-bound.
9. Temperature & Humidity
Optimal temperature: 15–27 °C; minimum 10 °C. Prefers high humidity (above 50%). Mist regularly or use a pebble tray or humidifier to maintain moisture.
10. Fertilization
Feed with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) at half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Cease fertilization in autumn and winter.
11. Maintenance & Care Level
Care level: Easy to moderate. Remove yellow or damaged fronds at the base to encourage healthy new growth. Monitor humidity and watering to prevent brown tips.
12. Growth & Propagation
Propagate by dividing rhizomes in spring: separate healthy segments with at least two fronds and replant in fresh mix. Propagation by spores is rare in cultivation.
13. Common Problems
Brown tips – low humidity, fluoride in water, or underwatering.
Yellowing fronds – overwatering or poor drainage.
Pests – scale, mealybugs, spider mites; treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Root rot – from waterlogged soil.
14. Benefits & Uses
Provides lush, architectural foliage for indoor displays, terrariums, and hanging baskets. Enhances air quality by removing pollutants. Ideal for adding tropical flair to modern interiors and reception areas.
15. Toxicity & Safety
Non-toxic to cats and dogs (according to the ASPCA). Safe for homes with pets and children.