Red Java Fern care guide
Red Java Fern (Microsorum pteropus 'Red') — low light, 20-28 °C, pH 6-7.8, no CO2.
Overview
Red Java Fern (Microsorum pteropus 'Red') is an aquatic plant of the family Polypodiaceae, listed in the Aquairi knowledge base as a beginner-level species. It is typically grown under low light and without obligatory CO2 injection on any substrate. Java fern variety that produces reddish-brown new fronds before maturing into deep green. Adds warm tones to shaded epiphyte arrangements; otherwise as undemanding as the standard species.
Taxonomy
- Family: Polypodiaceae
- Genus: Microsorum
- Scientific name: Microsorum pteropus 'Red'
Habitat
Microsorum pteropus (Java fern) is a tropical fern of South-East Asia growing on rocks and tree roots in streams and waterfalls, frequently above the waterline. In the Aquairi knowledge base, populations associated with this form are recorded from Asia.
Growth requirements
- Lighting: low
- CO2: not required
- Temperature: 20-28 °C (68-82 °F)
- pH: 6-7.8
- GH: 3-14 °dGH
- Substrate: any
- Maximum height: 25 cm
- Growth rate: slow
- Recommended placement: midground
Placement
Must be tied or glued to wood or rock — the rhizome rots if buried. Tolerates a wide range of light from low to medium intensity. In the Aquairi knowledge base this form is recommended for the midground under low light and without obligatory CO2 injection, using any substrate.
Propagation
Reproduces by rhizome division and by plantlets that form on the underside of mature leaves; detached plantlets can be attached to new hardscape. Documented propagation techniques for this entry include: rhizome-division.
Common issues
Small black or transparent spots on older leaves are often signs of nutrient deficiency (especially potassium) rather than disease; affected leaves can be removed at the rhizome.