Fishtail Sword Fern
Nephrolepis falcata
Fishtail Sword Fern is an evergreen fern with arching bright green fronds that fork at the tips like a fish tail. Dense growth makes it a good moisture-loving potted plant for bright bathrooms or other humid rooms. Do not let the soil dry out fully.
Light
Bright Indirect
Water
High
Difficulty
Moderate
Humidity
High
Pet Friendly
Nephrolepis falcata is considered non-toxic to cats, dogs, and other common household pets, making it an excellent choice for animal-friendly homes.
Care Notes
Light
Place your fern in bright, filtered light. Direct afternoon sun can burn the forked tips.
Water
Keep the soil consistently moist. Water as soon as the surface feels barely dry. Letting the mix dry out completely often causes sudden frond drop.
Soil
Use a rich, peat-based mix that holds moisture but still drains. A planter with drainage holes keeps roots from sitting in stagnant water.
Humidity & Temperature
Humidity above 60% is ideal. Use a humidifier, pebble tray, or plant grouping. Keep temperatures between 65°F and 80°F (18°C-27°C), away from cold drafts and heater vents. In winter, keep the soil moist without soaking it if the room runs cooler.
Common Issues
Yellow fronds often mean overwatering or poor drainage. Crispy brown edges usually mean low humidity or underwatering.
In-Depth Care & Growth
Feeding & Soil
Fertilizer
Balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half-strength
Soil
A rich, peat-based potting mix that retains moisture while allowing for adequate drainage.
Physical Attributes
Mature Size
2 to 3 feet tall and wide
Growth Rate
Moderate
Propagation
Propagate by dividing the root ball during repotting or by removing and potting the small runners (stolons) that grow from the base.
Common Varieties
Furcans (fishtail split)
Arching bright green fronds with leaflets that fork at the tips into a clear Y-shape.