How to Grow Microsorum musifolium
Microsorum musifolium
Microsorum musifolium
fernMicrosorum musifolium, commonly known as the Crocodile Fern or Ric Rac Fern, is an evergreen tropical fern characterized by deeply lobed, wavy-edged fronds that resemble crocodile skin. This epiphytic fern is native to Southeast Asia and makes an excellent ornamental houseplant. It thrives in humid, warm environments and is prized for its unique texture and distinctive foliage.
When should you plant Microsorum musifolium in your zone?
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Example Microsorum musifolium timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Microsorum musifolium
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Microsorum musifolium
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Zones 10b-12; can be grown indoors year-round in cooler climates
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Get my Microsorum musifolium timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
4-6 weeksNew fronds emerge tightly curled and compact; plant focuses on root development and acclimation
Maintain high humidity (50-80%); avoid fertilizing for first month; water gently; protect from drafts
Vegetative Growth
3-6 monthsFronds gradually uncurl and develop the characteristic crocodile-skin texture; plant produces new growth regularly
Maintain consistent moisture and humidity; apply balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer every 4 weeks during growing season; mist regularly
Mature Growth
Ongoing, several yearsFronds reach full size and display deep lobes and wavy edges; plant develops multiple fronds at various stages
Continue regular watering and humidity management; fertilize monthly spring through summer; remove any brown or damaged fronds
Spore Production
Throughout year, peaks in springSori (spore clusters) appear on underside of mature fronds as brown, slightly raised structures
Do not remove fronds with sori if reproduction is desired; maintain optimal humidity to encourage spore dispersal
Rest Period
2-3 monthsGrowth slows significantly in winter; fronds remain vibrant but new growth is minimal
Reduce watering frequency slightly but maintain humidity; reduce or pause fertilizing; keep temperature above 55°F
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Increase humidity; mist regularly; use neem oil spray or miticide; isolate affected plant
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Remove with cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol; spray with insecticidal soap; repeat weekly as needed
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Remove manually with brush; apply horticultural oil spray; inspect regularly for reinfestation
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Reduce overwatering; allow top soil to dry slightly between waterings; use sticky traps; apply neem oil to soil
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Improve drainage; repot in fresh, well-draining medium; trim affected roots; reduce watering frequency
Uses
Indoor Foliage Display
HouseholdMicrosorum musifolium's unique crocodile-textured fronds make it an attractive focal point in indoor plant collections. Its compact growth and distinctive appearance appeal to collectors seeking unusual tropical houseplants. [source]
Humidity Enhancement
HouseholdFerns actively transpire moisture into the air, making them valuable for increasing humidity in indoor spaces. Growing this fern contributes to a more humid microclimate beneficial for other tropical plants. [source]
Terrarium and Vivarium Plant
WildlifeMicrosorum musifolium thrives in closed or semi-closed terrariums and is ideal for tropical reptile and amphibian vivariums. Its humidity tolerance and compact growth make it suitable for enclosed ecosystems. [source]
Living Plant Arrangement
CraftThe textured, sculptural fronds of Crocodile Fern work well in planted dish gardens, hanging baskets, and living walls. Its cascading growth habit adds dimension to plant arrangements. [source]
Harvest Tips
This is an ornamental foliage plant, not harvested for food or material. Remove dead, diseased, or brown-edged fronds at the base with clean scissors to maintain plant appearance and redirect energy to healthy growth.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Microsorum musifolium is an epiphytic fern, meaning it naturally grows on trees in tropical rainforests rather than in soil, which is why it prefers loose, airy potting media.
- 🌱 The common name 'Crocodile Fern' comes from the distinctive wavy, lobed edges of its fronds that resemble crocodile skin texture.
- 🌱 Unlike flowering plants, ferns reproduce via spores rather than seeds; mature Crocodile Ferns develop spore-producing structures called sori on the undersides of their fronds, and can colonize new areas through spore dispersal in humid conditions.
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