California Polypody (Polypodium californicum) is a native fern of California, thriving in shady, moist environments. Its evergreen fronds add texture and greenery to wood
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Partial to full shade
25% intensity
Prefers shady or partly shaded conditions. Protect from direct afternoon sun, which can scorch the fronds.
Consistent moisture
50% intensity
Keep soil evenly moist, but avoid soggy conditions. Allow the top inch of soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Well-draining, Humus-rich
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in average room temperatures between 18-24°C. Protect from frost and extreme temperature fluctuations.
Light feeding during growing season
25% intensity
Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength monthly from spring to summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water thoroughly when the top centimeter of soil feels dry to the touch.
Reduce watering frequency during the dormant winter months, allowing the soil to dry out slightly more between waterings.
Remove any dead, damaged, or yellowing fronds as they appear to maintain a tidy appearance and encourage healthy new growth. Pruning is generally minimal and focused on aesthetic maintenance rather than structural shaping.
Propagate by dividing established rhizomes in spring. Carefully separate sections of the rhizome, ensuring each piece has at least one growth bud and some roots. Replant immediately in well-draining potting mix.
Repot every two to three years or when the plant becomes root-bound, typically in early spring before new growth begins. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one and use a well-draining, peat-based potting mix.
Identify plants like this with ePlant AI
Snap a photo to get care tips and match similar species on the go.
Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of California Polypody (Polypodium californicum)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Polypodiaceae |
| Genus | Polypodium |
| Species | Polypodium californicum |
Similar in genus Polypodium
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
