Phymatosorus scolopendria · Wart fern (Monarch fern)

The fronds are deeply pinnatifid with irregular, wavy-margined lobes that vary in width along the frond, and the upper surface shows scattered dark dots corresponding to sori pushing through from below \u2014 a pattern typical of Phymatosorus (often still listed as Microsorum) species. This rules out Phlebodium aureum, which has a more uniform, evenly pinnatifid frond with a distinct blue-glaucous cast and narrower, more regularly spaced lobes, and it also rules out Microsorum musifolium, which has broad, mostly undivided strap-like blades with a network of raised veins rather than deep lobing. The plant's leathery texture, irregular lobing, and dotted sori are more consistent with Phymatosorus scolopendria (wart fern) or a closely related Phymatosorus/Microsorum hybrid, but without a clear underside view of the sori arrangement or a measurement of frond thickness, I can't be fully certain of the species. A photo of the frond underside showing sori shape/arrangement, plus an image of the rhizome and scales, would help confirm.

Generated 2026-08-17 18:48 by anthropic (claude-sonnet-5).

Light

Bright, filtered light to partial shade; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh midday exposure.

Water

Keep soil or mounting medium evenly moist; water when the surface begins to dry, roughly every 5-7 days, reducing slightly in cooler months.

Nutrients

Light monthly feeding with a diluted balanced liquid fertilizer during spring and summer; skip in winter.

Repotting

Repot or divide every 1-2 years when the creeping rhizome outgrows its container; use a shallow, wide pot since roots stay near the surface.

Soil media

Well-draining, organically rich mix -- standard potting soil amended with perlite and bark works well; can also be mounted like an epiphytic fern.

Temp & humidity

65-85F; thrives in high humidity (50-70%+) -- mist regularly or place on a pebble tray in drier rooms.

Temperature range

🌡️ 65-85F

Humidity range

💦 50-70%+

Care group

🏷️ Bright & Humid

Toxicity

No known toxicity concerns; safe around pets and visitors.

Pests & diseases

Generally trouble-free; watch for scale and mealybugs, and guard against root/rhizome rot if kept too wet or in poorly draining media.

Propagation

Divide the creeping rhizome into sections with fronds and roots attached and pot separately; this is far more reliable than growing from spores.

Generated 2026-08-17 18:49 by anthropic (claude-sonnet-5).