Microsorum punctatum, a fern that knows no borders

Although Microsorum punctatum can be found in all tropical regions of the world, it would appear that this fern in the Polypodiaceae family is native to New Caledonia. Or Malaysia. Or Mozambique. But it doesn't matter where its ancestors were born. It has crossed borders to establish itself everywhere, including in our homes.

How to recognize Microsorum punctatum?

Microsorum punctatum is an epiphytic or terrestrial plant. This bushy fern grows to a maximum height of 60 centimetres with an equal wingspan.

Its rhizome is covered with brown scales. Short and creeping, it grows underground.

Fronds can reach 55 centimetres long and five centimetres wide. They are leathery and pale green, like those of microsorum musifolium. But they are devoid of pattern. Only the midrib is marked. The botanical variety has simple, lanceolate fronds with rounded tips. In cultivars, such as microsorum punctatum 'Grandiceps, the frond divides at the apex.

The plant reproduces by means of sporangia. These are grouped in ochre sori and randomly distributed on the underside of the foliage.

Microsorum punctatum is non-toxic. It is even used in traditional medicine for its diuretic properties.

Our maintenance tips

Microsorum punctatum have a reputation for being easy to care for. This is true, provided they are given a high level of humidity and very regular watering.

Watering

Allow the rootball to dry out to one centimeter between waterings. Water generously with non-calcareous water (rainwater, for example) at room temperature.

Drain off any excess water left in the dish or planter. It can rot the roots.

Repotting

In spring, transfer your Microsorum punctatum to a larger pot, so that it can continue to grow.

Obtain a pierced pot of a larger size than the previous one. You can choose a terracotta container. Heavier, it will prevent your Microsorum punctatum from tipping over.

Fill the pot with a light, draining substrate. You can use potting soil for orchids or potting soil for green plants with peat, perlite and coconut fibre.

Plant microsorum punctatum in the center and add substrate. Do not bury rhizomes deeply. Water to facilitate rooting.

Place the pot on a saucer of moist clay balls to increase humidity.

Fertilization

You can stimulate the development of your plant during its growth phase, in spring and summer, with fertilizer.

Fertilize your Microsorum punctatum with a green plant fertilizer to support growth. Remember to halve the dose prescribed by the manufacturer.

Prune

To encourage the growth of your Microsorum punctatum, prune regularly.

There's no need to prune the foliage. Remove only dry fronds with clean, sharp pruning shears.

Cutting

Cutting is carried out during the strong growth phase, generally in spring and early summer.

Locate a rhizome with one or two fronds. Cut it with clean, sharp secateurs.

Prepare a pierced pot. Fill it with a light, well-draining substrate. You can choose orchid potting soil, for example, or make up your own mix of potting soil for green plants, peat moss, coconut fibre and perlite.

Plant your cutting without burying the rhizome deeply. Water to facilitate rooting.

Place the pot on a dish of moist clay balls to increase humidity.

Disease / Threat

Mealybugs

Information

Family	Polypodiaceae - Polypodiaceae
Type	Microsorum - Microsorum
Species	Microsore punctata - Microsorum punctatum
Lifecycle	Perennial
Foliage	Evergreen
Exposure	Half-shade
Substrat	Humus soil
Planting method	In pots
Categories	Interior Rhizome
Tag	Fritillary
Origins	West Africa Southeast Asia Oceania Australia
Hardiness (USDA)	9b
Leaf color