Also known as False Maiden Fern · Mariana Maiden Fern
Swordfern (Macrothelypteris torresiana) is a terrestrial fern featuring lance-shaped fronds that can reach up to 1.5 meters in height, native to tropical and subtropical
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Partial shade
50% intensity
Prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch its fronds.
Regular watering
75% intensity
Maintain consistently moist soil, but avoid waterlogged conditions.
Well-draining, humus-rich
50% intensity
Average to warm temperatures
50% intensity
Ideal temperatures range from 18-24°C. Protect from cold drafts and temperatures below 10°C.
Light feeding
25% intensity
Fertilize with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength during the growing season.
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 2-3 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water, as this can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering slightly during cooler winter months, but never allow the soil to dry out completely.
Remove any dead, damaged, or yellowing fronds as they appear by cutting them back to the base of the plant. This helps maintain the plant's aesthetic appeal and encourages new growth.
Light pruning can also be done to shape the plant if it becomes overgrown.
Swordferns are best propagated by dividing the rhizomes. In spring, carefully divide the plant into smaller sections, ensuring each section has at least a few healthy fronds and some roots.
Replant the divisions in fresh potting mix and keep them consistently moist.
Repot your Swordfern every 2-3 years or when it becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is one size larger than the current one. Use a well-draining potting mix formulated for ferns or houseplants.
Repot in the spring before the active growing season begins.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Swordfern (Macrothelypteris torresiana)
Where Swordfern (Macrothelypteris torresiana) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Thelypteridaceae |
| Genus | Macrothelypteris |
| Species | Macrothelypteris torresiana |
Similar in genus Macrothelypteris
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
