caterpillar fern
Also known as: grub fern
An epiphytic evergreen fern, with a creeping, blue-green rhizome and pinnatifid pale green fronds to 50cm long, held on straw-coloured stalks
Scientific classification
- Species
- caterpillar fern (Polypodiodes formosana)
- Genus
- Polypodiodes
- Family
- Polypodiaceae
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- Toxicity
- Ferns
- Plant type
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Height
- 0.5-1 metres
- Spread
- Evergreen
- Foliage
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- Habit
- Spring · Summer · Autumn · Winter
- Season of interest
- Partial shade
- Sunlight
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- Ideal temperature
caterpillar fern pictures
Distribution of caterpillar fern
Distribution map
China, Taiwan, Japan
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Culture
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Toxicity
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Quick identification of caterpillar fern
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caterpillar fern care guide
- Moderate regular watering, avoid prolonged drought and stagnant waterlogging
- Watering
- Partial shade
- Sunlight
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- Ideal temperature
Watering
Moderate regular watering, avoid prolonged drought and stagnant waterlogging
Fertilizing
FertilizingBalanced perennial feed every four weeks spring through summer growth
Pruning
PruningNo pruning required
Propagation
PropagationPropagate by spores, or by division in spring or early summer
Growing
GrowingMay be grown outdoors in the mildest areas of the UK if well-protected in winter; plant in moderately fertile, well-drained gritty soil, or in containers that can be moved indoors over winter. See how to grow tender ferns outdoors. In colder areas, grow under glass, in equal parts fine-grade bark, perlite and charcoal
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Common pests and diseases
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Pests
Generally pest-free
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