A very handsome tropical Blechnum with pinnatifid fronds that emerge a brilliant red color with black scales along the stipe. While there is a specific cultivar name ‘Volcano’ noted for it’s intensely reddish new growth, the straight species B. brasilense also has lovely red new growth as the croziers unfurl. These are sometimes referred to as “Dwarf Tree Ferns” because the central crown or caudex‍ ‍tends to build up above the soil line over time, potentially up to a few feet in ideal tropical condtions. They are, however, not actually tree ferns in the true sense like ferns in the Sphaeopteris, Cyathea and Dicksonia genera, which will build up enormous trunks that can reach 40’ or more! As the crown builds up above the soil line they become more vulnerable to cold and dry conditions, so these are best kept as houseplants that like a moderate amount of light and even moisture. Very similar to but more colorful than Blechnum gibbum ‘Silver Lady’

Frond Condition: Evergreen in optimum conditions; may be semi-evergreen in marginal conditions.

Mature Size: Fronds 3’ long by 12-18” wide, up to 3’ spread, crown buildup over time may increase the ultimate height over 3’

Root Type: Central Crown or Caudex, fronds set in Rosette pattern that builds up over time

Origin: South America, Brazil

Cultivation requirements: Bright filtered light or constant indirect light; Part Shade to Shade; May be less vigorous in Deep Shade; prefers Evenly Moist during active growth, Lightly Moist in periods of rest.

USDA Zones: Zone 9 (marginal, protection recommended), Zone 10, Zone 11 or as a Houseplant or with adequate winter protection.