Resurrection Fern
pleopeltis polypodioides
Also known as: ["Polypodium polypodioides"]
Overview
A small, drought-tolerant fern known for its ability to survive extreme desiccation and 'resurrect' when watered.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Polypodiopsida |
| Order: | Polypodiales |
| Family: | Polypodiaceae |
| Genus: | Pleopeltis |
| Botanical Name: | Pleopeltis polypodioides |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor pot or shaded outdoor wall/masonry
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added organic matter; can use orchid or fern-specific mix.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every few months or when fronds yellow/brown.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than 20% of fronds at once.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates lower light but may grow slower.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to brighter light; avoid direct sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains for filtered light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, humus-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoid frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent warmth; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 2 months during growing season (spring–summer)
Fertilize in spring/summer only; dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Spores or rhizome division; spores are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Collect spores.
- Prepare medium.
- Scatter spores.
- Keep moist and warm.
- Or divide rhizome.
- Plant in new pot.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Mixture of peat moss and perlite; keep consistently moist.
Hormone
Not required for spores; rooting hormone may help with rhizome cuttings.
Timeline
Spores may take 1–3 months to germinate; rhizome division roots in 2–4 weeks.
Tools Needed
Spore collection kit, sterile knife, pots, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use a humidity dome for spores; sterilize tools for rhizome division; be patient with germination.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut fronds at the base with clean, sharp tools; avoid tearing.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged fronds to maintain appearance and health; occasional shaping to control size.
Tools
Pruning shears, scissors, or a sharp knife.
Checklist
Check for dead/damaged fronds; sterilize tools; cut cleanly; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring or early summer before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, allowing water to penetrate the root zone; ensure excess water drains away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or browning leaf tips.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or discoloration in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid drafty areas.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or dehydration in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPleopeltis polypodioides is not toxic to cats. It does not produce any known toxic effects or physiological impacts when ingested by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicPleopeltis polypodioides is not toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects or physiological impacts when ingested by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicPleopeltis polypodioides, commonly known as resurrection fern, is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known toxic effects or physiological impact when ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does the Resurrection Fern survive drought?
A: It can lose up to 95% of its water content and curl up, then rehydrate and reopen when water becomes available.
Q: Where is this fern commonly found?
A: It often grows on trees, rocks, and other surfaces in humid, subtropical regions.
Q: Is it safe for pets?
A: Yes, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Polypodiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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