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How to Grow Ric Rac Plant

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Ric Rac Plant

Microsorum lingua

herb

Microsorum lingua, commonly known as the Ric Rac Plant, is a tropical fern characterized by its deeply lobed, wavy-edged fronds that resemble a ric rac trim or ribbon. Native to Southeast Asia and the Pacific regions, it is an epiphytic fern that grows on trees in its natural habitat. It is prized as an ornamental houseplant for its unique, architectural foliage.

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Example Ric Rac Plant timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)

  1. Plant Ric Rac Plant

    Around Apr 17

    Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.

  2. Tend & protect

    Late spring–summer

    Watering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.

  3. Harvest Ric Rac Plant

    Late summer into fall

    Before the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)

Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Ric Rac Plant dates for your own zip code.

Growing Conditions

☀️
Sun: Bright, indirect light; 6-8 hours daily. Avoid direct sun which can scorch fronds.
💧
Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water when top inch of soil feels dry. Prefers high humidity (60-80%); mist regularly or use a pebble tray with water.
📏
Spacing: 12-18 inches
📅
Days to maturity: Not applicable; ornamental plant
🌱
Planting depth: Plant rhizomes at soil surface or slightly above; do not bury completely

Soil

Type: Loose, well-draining, orchid bark or fern-specific potting mix with high organic matter
pH: 5.5-6.5
Amendments:
Perlite Sphagnum moss Coconut coir Orchid bark

Growing Zones

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Thrives in zones 10b-11; grown as a houseplant elsewhere

10b 11a 11b

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Growth Stages

1

Establishment

2-4 weeks

New plant acclimating to conditions, developing initial root system

Keep humidity high, avoid drafts and temperature fluctuations. Water carefully to establish roots without rot.

2

Vegetative Growth

6-12 months

Plant produces new fronds with characteristic wavy, lobed margins

Maintain consistent moisture and high humidity. Fertilize monthly with diluted liquid fertilizer during growing season (spring-summer). Ensure bright, indirect light.

3

Mature Fronds

Ongoing

Fronds reach full size and develop the distinctive ric rac appearance with deep lobing

Continue regular watering and humidity. Clean fronds gently with soft cloth to remove dust. Reduce fertilizing frequency in fall and winter.

4

Reproduction (Spore Production)

Ongoing in mature plants

Mature fronds develop sori (spore clusters) on the undersides, appearing as small brown dots

No special care needed; spores are rarely viable indoors. Plant continues to produce spores seasonally.

Companion Planting

Plan your garden →

Plant with:

Pothos Rhaphidophora tetrasperma Monstera Anthurium Alocasia other tropical houseplants

Avoid planting near:

Plants requiring dry conditions Succulents requiring infrequent watering

Common Pests

  • Spray with horticultural oil or neem oil; isolate affected plant; inspect regularly

  • Increase humidity; mist foliage; spray with water or insecticidal soap; ensure adequate air circulation

  • Remove manually with alcohol-soaked cloth; apply neem oil or horticultural oil every 2 weeks

  • Allow soil surface to dry slightly between waterings; use yellow sticky traps; apply hydrogen peroxide solution to soil

Uses

🏠

Ornamental Indoor Plant

Household

The striking ric rac fronds with deep lobes and wavy margins make Microsorum lingua an excellent decorative houseplant for bright bathrooms, offices, and living spaces. Its architectural foliage adds tropical ambiance and visual interest to any indoor setting. [source]

🏠

Air Quality Improvement

Household

Like other ferns, Microsorum lingua contributes to indoor air purification by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. It helps maintain humidity levels in dry indoor environments. [source]

🎨

Terrarium and Vivarium Plant

Craft

Ideal for closed terrariums and tropical vivariums due to its preference for high humidity and moderate light. Its compact growth habit and striking appearance make it popular in bioactive enclosures. [source]

🦋

Habitat Microecosystem

Wildlife

As an epiphytic fern in nature, Microsorum lingua provides microhabitats for insects, small arthropods, and moisture-loving organisms. It creates a mini-ecosystem on branches and structures. [source]

Harvest Tips

Microsorum lingua is not harvested; it is grown as an ornamental foliage plant. Remove dead or damaged fronds at their base to encourage new growth and maintain plant appearance.

Fun Facts

  • 🌱 The common name 'Ric Rac Plant' refers to the distinctive wavy, scalloped edges of its fronds that resemble decorative ric rac trim or ribbon used in sewing.
  • 🌱 In its native tropical habitat, Microsorum lingua is an epiphytic fern, meaning it naturally grows on trees without harming them, similar to orchids and other rainforest plants.
  • 🌱 Unlike many ferns that reproduce via spores, Microsorum lingua can also propagate through rhizome division, making it relatively easy to propagate compared to other ferns.

Gardening Terms

New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:

pH
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