Kangaroo Paw Fern

Common names: Kangaroo paw fern
Scientific name: Microsorum diversifolium
Family: Polypodiaceae
Origin: Eastern Australia & New Zealand

Overview

The Kangaroo paw fern gets its name from its deeply lobed, irregular fronds that resemble a kangaroo’s paw. Unlike delicate ferns, this species is leathery, resilient, and adaptable, making it popular as a houseplant, terrarium accent, and vivarium fern.

It is an epiphytic or lithophytic fern in nature, often growing on rocks or tree trunks rather than soil.

Appearance

• Fronds: Thick, glossy, lobed; variable shapes on the same plant

• Color: Medium to deep green

• Texture: Leathery, firm (less fragile than most ferns)

• Growth habit: Rhizomatous, spreading

• Height: 30–60 cm (12–24 in) indoors

• Spread: Similar or wider with age

Light Requirements

• Best: Bright indirect light

• Tolerates: Medium light

• Avoid: Direct sun (leaf scorch)

More light = fuller, more defined fronds.

Watering

• Water when top 2–3 cm of substrate dries

• Likes evenly moist medium, not soggy

• Far more drought-tolerant than many ferns

Overwatering causes rhizome rot.

Humidity

• Ideal: 50–70%

• Tolerates average indoor humidity better than most ferns

• Appreciates misting or humid rooms

Excellent for open terrariums or vivariums, less ideal for sealed containers due to size.

Temperature

• Optimal: 18–27°C (65–80°F)

• Minimum: 10–12°C (50–54°F)

• Avoid frost and cold drafts

Substrate

Prefers airy, fast-draining mixes:

• Orchid bark

• Coco chips

• Perlite

• Small amount of peat or coir

Rhizomes should sit on top of the substrate, not buried.

Fertilization

• Light feeder

• Use balanced fertilizer at ½ strength

• Feed every 4–6 weeks in growing season

• Reduce feeding in winter

Pruning & Maintenance

• Remove old or damaged fronds at the base

• Do not cut green fronds unnecessarily

• Clean leaves to maintain gloss

Propagation

Rhizome division:

1. Cut rhizome with at least one growing point

2. Mount or pot in airy mix

3. Keep warm and humid until established

Spore propagation is possible but slow.

Common Problems

Terrarium & Vivarium Use

• Best as a background or focal fern

• Too large for nano terrariums

• Suitable for open or semi-open setups

Toxicity

• Non-toxic to pets and humans

Aquatic Use

🚫 Not an aquarium plant

• Cannot tolerate submersion

• Will rot underwater

Summary

Kangaroo paw fern is:

• One of the toughest ornamental ferns

• Excellent for intermediate plant keepers

• Adaptable to home humidity

• A bold contrast to delicate ferns and mosses