This handsome tropical fern has broad, pinnatafid fronds (undivided segments attached to the rachis or stalk) that emerge from a central rosette. The tidy habit is usually fairly upright and slightly arching, with fronds reaching up to 3’ long by 12-18” wide, with a spread up to 3’. The rachis and the veins of the pinnae are typically a light lime green color, a nice contrast against the darker green, semi-glossy frond segments.

These tropical Blechnum are sometimes referred to as “Dwarf Tree Ferns” although they are technically not true tree ferns like plants in the Dicksonia, Cyathea and Sphaeopteris genera. Over time the caudex will build up above the ground, elevating the central growth tip on a pseudo-trunk, and though they do grow quickly in optimum conditions, they will never achieve the grandiose heights of true tree ferns. As they mature, the raised root system becomes increasingly more exposed. Although this is fine in warm, humid tropical environments, it can render them vulnerable to drying out or cold damage in marginal climates and so they are best grown in Zones 10 or 11 or as Houseplants. They will actively grow in temperatures between 64 F and 81 F and may enter a period of rest and require less water in prolonged temperatures between 50 F and 64 F.

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

Origin: Fiji, New Caledonia and the Tropical South Pacific

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.