Also known as Kunth's Maiden Fern · Larger Marsh Shield Fern · South Shield Fern
Stately maiden fern (Thelypteris kunthii) is an upright, clump-forming fern with broad, bright green fronds that add lushness to shady garden spots.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Partial Shade
50% intensity
Thrives in bright, indirect light. Protect from direct sunlight, which can scorch the fronds and cause them to turn yellow or brown.
Consistent Moisture
75% intensity
Prefers consistently moist soil, but avoid waterlogging. Allow the top layer of soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil
50% intensity
Average Room Temperature
50% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 18-24°C. Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations and cold drafts, which can stress the plant.
Light Feeding
25% intensity
Feed lightly with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength during the growing season (spring to summer). Reduce or stop feeding 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 |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil begins to feel dry. In drier conditions or warmer weather, increase watering frequency.
Avoid letting the soil dry out completely, as this can stress the plant and lead to browning fronds.
Remove dead, damaged, or yellowing fronds by cutting them back to the base of the plant. This can be done at any time of year. Pruning encourages new growth and maintains the plant's tidy appearance.
Use clean, sharp shears to prevent disease spread.
Thelypteris kunthii is typically propagated by division of clumps or by spores. Divide established plants in spring when new growth emerges.
Carefully separate sections with roots and at least one frond, then replant immediately. Spore propagation is more complex and requires specific conditions.
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound, preferably in spring. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one, with good drainage. Use a well-draining, peat-based potting mix.
Handle the root ball gently to minimize disturbance.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Stately Maiden Fern (Thelypteris kunthii)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Thelypteridaceae |
| Genus | Thelypteris |
| Species | Thelypteris kunthii |
Similar in genus Thelypteris
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
