Tuberous sword fern (Nephrolepis cordifolia)
Also known as: Herringbone fern, Ladder fern, Tuber ladder fern, Duffy fern, Lemon button fern
The sweet potato vine (Ipomoea batatas) is a popular choice for summer annuals in containers due to its attractive foliage. In regions without frost, it can spread rapidly and may become invasive if not properly managed.
In This Article
Attributes of Tuberous sword fern
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Fern
Plant Height
61 cm to 91 cm
Spread
60 cm to 90 cm
Leaf Color
Green
Flower Size
N/A
Flower Color
N/A
Images of Tuberous sword fern
Quickly Identify Tuberous sword fern
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Sword-shaped fronds with finely toothed edges.
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Height can reach 2-3 feet (60-90 cm).
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Reproductive spores visible on fronds' underside.
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Propagates through hairy subterranean runners.
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Tolerant of temperatures down to 25°F (-4°C) and dry soil.
Scientific Classification of Tuberous sword fern
Phylum
Vascular plants
Class
Ferns
Order
Polypodiales
Family
Swordfern
Genus
Boston ferns
Species
Tuberous sword fern
Planting and Growing of Tuberous sword fern
Care Difficulty
Easy
Watering Schedule
Every 5 days
Sunlight Requirements
Partial sun
Sunshine Duration
6-10 hours
Ideal Temperature
60-75℉
Soil Type
Potting Mix, Peat Mix
Soil pH
6.5-7.5
Fertilizer Type
Balanced
Pruning Season
Spring, Summer
Pruning Area
Branches, Leaves
Pruning Frequency
2 times a year
Repotting Season
Spring
Pot Type
Plastic, Ceramic
How to Water Tuberous sword fern?
For Nephrolepis cordifolia, the watering should be thorough yet not excessive. Each session should aim to ensure that water reaches the root zone but does not result in waterlogging—typically around 250ml per watering session is ideal, depending on the size of the pot and environmental conditions.
More About Watering Techniques→
What are the symptoms of an underwatered Tuberous sword fern?
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What should I do if my Tuberous sword fern is not getting enough water?
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What are the symptoms of an overwatered Tuberous sword fern?
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How to save an overwatered Tuberous sword fern?
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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Tuberous sword fern?
Nephrolepis cordifolia flourishes in partial sun to full shade conditions. Ideal light conditions ensure vibrant foliage and overall plant vigor. It promotes efficient photosynthesis, maintaining healthy growth patterns and enhancing the plant's resilience.
More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→
How to provide ideal lighting?
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What happens when ideal light is provided?
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What's the ideal way to recreate natural lighting?
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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Tuberous sword fern?
The ideal temperature range for Nephrolepis cordifolia is between 60°F and 75°F. These conditions closely mimic the warm, humid environments where the plant naturally thrives, promoting lush foliage and healthy growth.
What Soil is Best for Tuberous sword fern?
Nephrolepis cordifolia thrives in well-draining soil to prevent root rot. Using a potting mix that includes perlite or coarse sand helps to facilitate drainage, allowing the roots to breathe and grow healthily. This plant needs a nutrient-rich medium for optimum growth. A high organic matter content can provide essential nutrients, promoting lush, vibrant fronds and supporting overall plant health. While good drainage is crucial, the soil should retain enough moisture for consistent hydration. Adding peat moss helps maintain moisture levels, preventing the plant from drying out.
More About Soil→
How to Fertilize Tuberous sword fern?
For Nephrolepis cordifolia, it’s crucial to apply fertilizer according to its growing phase. During the active growing period in spring and summer, use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half the recommended strength to avoid over-fertilization. In the dormant winter months, reduce fertilization significantly.
How to Prune Tuberous sword fern?
Begin by identifying any dead, yellowing, or brown fronds. Gently cut them near the base, taking care not to damage healthy parts of the plant. Removing these fronds encourages better light penetration and air circulation. After removing the dead fronds, assess the overall shape of the plant. If it appears unruly, trim back any overly long or unruly fronds. This helps maintain an attractive, bushy appearance. Trim just above a leaf node to promote new growth.
More About Pruning Techniques→
How to Propagate Tuberous sword fern plant?
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Choose a healthy and mature Nephrolepis cordifolia plant for propagation. Avoid plants that show signs of disease or pest infestation, as these can transfer to the new plants.
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Use a sterilized knife or scissors to take a cutting from the parent plant, about 4-6 inches long, including at least two leaves. This encourages the growth of a new plant from the cutting.
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Dip the cutting's end in rooting hormone and plant it in a pot filled with a well-draining potting mix. Water it lightly and cover it with a plastic bag to maintain humidity which aids in rooting.
How to Repot Tuberous sword fern plant?
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Repot Nephrolepis cordifolia when you notice roots growing out of the drainage hole or wrapping around the root ball tightly. Ideally, repotting should be done just when new growth is starting, which indicates the plant’s readiness for more space.
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Opt for a pot that is 2-3 inches larger in diameter than the current one. Ensure it has good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Terracotta pots are excellent for ferns as they allow air circulation to the roots.
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Select a soil mix that is rich in organic matter and well-draining. A peat-based soil mix combined with perlite ensures adequate drainage and retains sufficient moisture, promoting healthy growth for Nephrolepis cordifolia.
