African Water Fern Plant Care

African Water Fern (Bolbitis heudelotii) belongs to the Dryopteridaceae family within the Bolbitis genus. African Water Fern is native to subtropical and tropical Africa, from Ethiopia west to Senegal. African Water Fern is also known as Congo Fern.

African Water Fern displays a low rosette, spreading fern growth habit, reaching up to 1.5 ft tall with a spread of approximately 1.5 ft. African Water Fern produces non-flowering.

Leaf size: approximately 12 inches.

Bolbitis heudelotii requires watering every 7–10 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.

African Water Fern thrives in bright indirect to low light. Avoid placing African Water Fern in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Bolbitis heudelotii grows best at temperatures of 60–75°F. African Water Fern prefers humidity levels of 50–70%. A pebble tray or humidifier helps maintain adequate moisture around the plant.

Loose, well-draining potting mix with added peat moss and perlite. Good drainage is essential for African Water Fern to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed African Water Fern every 6 months during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer diluted to the strength on the label.

Pause feeding in autumn and winter, when growth slows, and never fertilize dry soil — water first.

The PlantoScan app can remind you when to water and when to fertilize each plant.

Repot every 1-2 years in spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.

African Water Fern can be propagated through division of rhizomes. Similar propagation techniques also apply to appendiculate bolbitis plant care, which shares the same genus.

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African Water Fern is susceptible to spider mites, scale insects. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

Yellow leaves, brown tips or drooping? See common plant problems and how to fix them.

African Water Fern grows outdoors in USDA Zone 13a. It survives winters down to planting zone 13a. African Water Fern is native to subtropical and tropical Africa, from Ethiopia west to Senegal. In cooler regions, grow African Water Fern as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.