Water
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water, which can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering slightly in cooler months.
Also known as Fishtail Fern · Fishtail Swordfern
Nephrolepis falcata is a graceful fern with arching fronds, often used as an attractive houseplant for its lush foliage and air-purifying qualities.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, Indirect Light
75% intensity
Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the fronds. Tolerates lower light but thrives in dappled shade.
Consistent Moisture
75% intensity
Prefers evenly moist soil; avoid drying out completely or becoming waterlogged.
Well-draining, peat-based potting mix
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers average room temperatures between 18-24°C. Protect from cold drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations.
Indoor
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed during growing season with diluted balanced liquid fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic
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. Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water, which can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering slightly in cooler months.
Prune to remove any dead, damaged, or yellowing fronds by cutting them at the base of the plant. Pinch back leggy growth to encourage a bushier habit.
This also helps maintain the plant's attractive appearance and encourages new frond production.
Propagate by dividing mature plants during repotting or by collecting and sowing spores, though division is the more common and successful method for home growers. Ensure each division has a healthy root system.
Repot every 1-2 years in spring when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is one size larger than the current one. Use a well-draining potting mix, and water thoroughly after repotting.
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 Nephrolepis Falcata (Nephrolepis falcata)
Where Nephrolepis Falcata (Nephrolepis falcata) is found
Density
Tap map to explore
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Nephrolepidaceae |
| Genus | Nephrolepis |
| Species | Nephrolepis falcata |
Similar in genus Nephrolepis
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
