Also known as Limestone Fern · Limestone Oakfern · Limestone Polypody
Limestone oak fern (Gymnocarpium robertianum) is a delicate fern found in rocky, calcareous habitats, featuring pale green, triangular fronds.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Partial Shade
50% intensity
Prefers dappled shade or morning sun. Protect from harsh afternoon sun, which can scorch fronds.
Regular
75% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but well-drained. Avoid drought and waterlogging.
Calcareous, Moist, Well-drained
50% intensity
Cool to Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 15-24°C. Protect from extreme heat and frost.
Light
25% intensity
Feed sparingly in spring and mid-summer with a 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 |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Maintain consistently moist soil, especially during warmer months. Avoid waterlogging, as this fern prefers good drainage. Reduce watering slightly in cooler periods but never allow the soil to dry out completely.
Check the top 2-3 cm of soil; if it feels dry, it's time to water.
Pruning is minimal for this fern. Remove any dead, damaged, or discolored fronds as they appear. This helps maintain the plant's health and appearance.
Trim back any fronds that have become leggy or are overcrowding other plants to encourage bushier growth.
Propagate by dividing established plants in early spring. Gently separate the rhizomes, ensuring each division has some roots and at least one frond. Replant immediately in well-draining, moist soil.
Spore propagation is also possible but more challenging and time-consuming for home gardeners.
Repot limestone oak fern every 2-3 years or when it becomes root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix enriched with organic matter, such as compost or leaf mold. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one.
Repot in spring before new growth emerges.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Limestone Oak Fern (Gymnocarpium robertianum)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Cystopteridaceae |
| Genus | Gymnocarpium |
| Species | Gymnocarpium robertianum |
Similar in genus Gymnocarpium
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
