Leatherleaf Fern
rumohra adiantiformis
Also known as: ["Leatherleaf","Rumohra Fern"]
Overview
A hardy, evergreen fern with leathery, dark green fronds, often used in floral arrangements for its durability.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","disease resistant","deer resistant","pet-friendly","cold hardy","low maintenance","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Polypodiopsida |
| Order: | Polypodiales |
| Family: | Dryopteridaceae |
| Genus: | Rumohra |
| Botanical Name: | Rumohra adiantiformis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: shady garden bed or container in a protected area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining potting mix with peat moss, perlite, and a bit of compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or when fronds become unsightly.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, focusing on selective removal rather than heavy cutting.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate some direct morning sun but prefers shade from intense afternoon rays.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to brighter light to prevent scorching. Indoors, place near an east or north window. Outdoors, provide dappled shade or filtered sunlight.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, humus-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Ensure soil is not compacted; use a mix that retains moisture but drains well; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates cooler conditions but avoids prolonged exposure below 50°F (10°C).
Avoid sudden temperature changes; keep away from heating/cooling vents; maintain stable conditions.
Fertilizing
every 2 months during active growth (spring and summer)
Always water before fertilizing to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes. Stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy stem cutting with at least one node.
- Apply rooting hormone if desired.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots to form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light. Maintain consistent moisture in the medium.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand for cuttings. Rhizome division can be planted directly in standard potting mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but can improve success rates for stem cuttings.
Timeline
Stem cuttings may root in 4–8 weeks. Rhizome division will establish more quickly if healthy.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining medium
Quick Tips
Keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain high humidity with a plastic bag or dome; check for root development after 4 weeks.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools to cut fronds at the base. Avoid cutting into the crown of the plant.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or damaged fronds, and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, disinfectant
Checklist
Disinfect tools; cut dead/damaged fronds; avoid over-pruning; clean up debris
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) in diameter.
Method
Remove the plant gently, trim any dead roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil, and water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. This fern benefits from fresh soil and space to grow.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; trim roots if needed; water lightly after repotting
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture with finger; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution. Water deeply to encourage root growth, and allow excess water to drain completely. Water in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water consistently during active growth (spring/summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce frequency in fall/winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate peat moss or compost for moisture retention and fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), stunted growth, or browning leaf tips in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf drop or browning. Prolonged cold may lead to root damage.
Solution: Move plant away from drafty windows or cold floors. Use a space heater to maintain optimal temperature if needed.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or dehydration, especially if combined with low humidity.
Solution: Increase humidity with a pebble tray or mister, and provide shade during peak heat. Ensure adequate watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicRumohra adiantiformis is not considered toxic to cats. It has not been associated with any toxic effects in felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicRumohra adiantiformis is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of poisoning in canines from this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicRumohra adiantiformis, commonly known as leatherleaf fern, is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It is widely used in the florist trade and as an ornamental plant without reported adverse effects.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Rumohra adiantiformis toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water this fern?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, ensuring consistent moisture but not waterlogging.
Q: Can this fern be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it thrives in bright, indirect light and high humidity, making it suitable for indoor cultivation.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Dryopteridaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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