Microsorum musifolium is part of the Polypodiaceae family and its native range is S. Myanmar to New Guinea. ‘Crocodyllus’ is a cultivar derived from a naturally-occurring whole-plant mutation. It has an epiphytic growth habit. Fronds are light green, strap-shaped and are fairly waxy, it's the bulges in between primary and secondary veins that give fronds a reptilian look.
Genus name comes from the Greek mikros meaning ‘small’ and soros meaning a ‘heap’ in reference to the cluster of spore capsules. Specific epithet means with leaves like those of the genus Musa.
Light: Bright indirect light, meaning the plant sees the sun for 0-4 hours per day - this could be through trees or a translucent curtain, it’s important for the plant to see the sky in order to thrive. In its natural environment this plant would receive dappled light.
Water: Microsorum musifolium prefer their substrate to be consistently moist, allow the top inch of the mix to dry out. Pour water slowly over the top of the substrate and allow the water to pass through the drainage holes; avoid pouring water into the heart of the plant.
Potting mix: A rich well draining mix composed of coco coir, perlite or vermiculite, a little bit of orchid bark and worm castings. These plants only have shallow root systems so it is important to keep the rhizomes at the substrate surface.
Fertilising: Feed your plant every few waterings during the growing season or when you observe active growth. You can dilute fertiliser to half the recommended amount but never add more.
Temperature: Ideally 18-28°C, no cooler than 15°C.
Humidity: Microsorum musifolium would prefer higher humidity. You can increase humidity by placing the plant on a watered pebble tray or using a humidifier.
Microsorum musifolium is non-toxic.