Kangaroo Fern Plant Care
Microsorum diversifolium (Willd.) Copel.
Zealandia pustulata is a species of fern native to eastern Australia and New Zealand. It is commonly referred to as 'kangaroo fern' or 'kangaroo paw fern' as its native range includes Australia and the shape of its mature foliage tends to resemble the shape of a kangaroo's foot.
Every 7–10 days
Bright indirect to low light
60–75°F
50–70%
What Is the Kangaroo Fern?
Kangaroo Fern (Microsorum diversifolium) belongs to the Polypodiaceae family within the Microsorum genus. Kangaroo Fern is native to eastern Australia and New Zealand. Kangaroo Fern is also known as Tassel Fern.
Kangaroo Fern displays a low rosette, spreading growth habit, reaching up to 1.5 inches tall with a spread of approximately 2 inches. Kangaroo Fern produces non-flowering.
Leaf size: approximately 12 inches.
How Often Should You Water a Kangaroo Fern?
Microsorum diversifolium 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.
Watering Frequency
Every 7–10 days
Let soil partially dry between waterings
What Light Does the Kangaroo Fern Need?
Kangaroo Fern thrives in bright indirect to low light light conditions. The optimal light range is 100–500 lux. Avoid placing Kangaroo Fern in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.
Light Requirement
Bright indirect to low light
100–500 lux
What Temperature and Humidity Does the Kangaroo Fern Prefer?
Microsorum diversifolium grows best at temperatures between 60°F and 75°F. Kangaroo Fern prefers humidity levels of 50–70%. A pebble tray or humidifier helps maintain adequate moisture around the plant.
Temperature
60–75°F
Humidity
50–70%
What Soil Mix Works Best for a Kangaroo Fern?
Well-draining, peat-based potting mix with added perlite for aeration. Good drainage is essential for Kangaroo Fern to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Do You Repot a Kangaroo Fern?
Repot every 2-3 years in early spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
How Do You Propagate a Kangaroo Fern?
Kangaroo Fern can be propagated through spores, division of rhizomes. Similar propagation techniques also apply to crocodile fern plant care, which shares the same genus.
Fertilizing
Every 6 months
During the growing season
Is the Kangaroo Fern Toxic to Pets and Children?
Non-Toxic
Non-toxic to humans and pets
What Pests and Diseases Affect the Kangaroo Fern?
Kangaroo 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.
What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Kangaroo Fern Need?
Kangaroo Fern grows outdoors in USDA Zone 10b – 13. Native to eastern Australia and New Zealand, Kangaroo Fern is adapted to warm climates. In cooler regions, grow Kangaroo Fern as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 10b – 13
Keep exploring plants
Kangaroo Fern is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.
It belongs to the Microsorum genus — compare its care with other Microsorum species on PlantoScan.
Kangaroo Fern thrives in bright light and direct sun — see other bright-light plants.
More Microsorum Species
Other Microsorum species in PlantoScan's care catalogue share similar watering, light, and soil preferences:
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