Water
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 pot sit in standing water, as this can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering slightly in cooler months.
Also known as Leather Fern · Leatherleaf Fern · Ten-Day Fern
Iron Fern (Rumohra adiantiformis) is a popular evergreen fern known for its leathery, divided fronds, making it a versatile choice for shady gardens and indoor spaces.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, Indirect Light
50% intensity
Thrives in partial shade or bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sun, which can scorch fronds.
Consistent Moisture
75% intensity
Prefers consistently moist soil, but avoid waterlogging.
Well-draining, humus-rich soil
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers average room temperatures between 18-24°C. Protect from drafts and sudden temperature drops.
Indoor
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed 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 |
| Edible | No |
None
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 pot sit in standing water, as this can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering slightly in cooler months.
Remove any yellow, brown, or damaged fronds by cutting them back to the base of the plant. This not only improves the appearance but also encourages new growth.
Pruning can be done at any time of year as needed to maintain the plant's shape and health.
Iron Ferns are typically propagated by dividing established clumps. In spring, gently separate the rhizomes, ensuring each division has at least a few healthy fronds and some roots.
Replant divisions immediately in moist, well-draining potting mix.
Repot your Iron Fern 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, ideally a blend formulated for ferns or a mix of peat moss and perlite.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Iron Fern (Rumohra adiantiformis)
Where Iron Fern (Rumohra adiantiformis) 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 | Dryopteridaceae |
| Genus | Rumohra |
| Species | Rumohra adiantiformis |
Similar in genus Rumohra
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
