Nephrolepis obliterata aka Australian Swordfern

Taxonomy

Common names

Australian Swordfern, Kimberley Queen Fern

How to care for Australian Swordfern

Difficulty

Are you up for a challenge? Australian Swordfern will test your gardening skills and require extra care and attention to thrive.

Soil

When growing Australian Swordfern, it is important to pay attention to the soil type you are using. This plant is very sensitive to dry soil and needs a potting soil that retains moisture. A good soil should still be well-draining and contain lots of organic matter. Coco coir or sphagnum moss are great options to provide the Kimberley Queen Fern with the nutrients and moisture it needs. The added organic matter will also help the soil retain water and prevent the Australian Swordfern from drying out too quickly. Before planting, make sure to mix compost or manure into the soil for extra nutrients. Also, make sure to water the Australian Swordfern regularly, making sure to keep the soil evenly moist but never soggy. With the correct soil and watering regimen, the Australian Swordfern will thrive and bring lots of beauty to your home.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Australian Swordfern prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Dormancy

During the cold period, it is common for Australian Swordfern to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.

Toxicity

Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.

Fertilizer

The Australian Swordfern should be repotted either when it doubles in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing new potting soil with all the vital nutrients annually is enough to support the growth of the plant, and thus, there is no need for fertilizer. Remember that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.

Region of origin

Australian Swordfern’s native range is Worldwide.


More info:
Wikipedia