Nephrolepis exaltata is part of the Polypodiaceae family and its native range is Tropical & Subtropical America. Fronds are broad and dagger-shaped with alternate leaflets either side of the midrib.
Genus name comes from the Greek words nephros meaning kidney and lepis meaning a scale. Specific epithet means ‘raised’.
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 their native environment they would be exposed to dappled light but this wouldn’t be enough in the home.
Water: Nephrolepis exaltata 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.
If the soil dries out too much this plant may shed fronds, I’d recommend cutting those back to encourage new growth.
Potting mix: A mix containing coco coir, worm castings, perlite and horticultural sand.
Fertilising: Feed your plant every 2 weeks during the growing season or when you observe active growth. You can dilute fertiliser to half the recommended amount but never add more.
Temperature: 16-24˚C
Humidity: Nephrolepis exaltata would prefer higher humidity. You can increase humidity by placing the plant on a watered pebble tray or using a humidifier.
Nephrolepis exaltata is non-toxic.