Bear's Paw Fern

Taxonomic Name: Aglaomorpha meyeniana

Polypody Fern Family

Nonflowering Herbaceous Plant

If you enjoy buying a young plant and watching it grow to a larger size, this species is your type of fern. The bear's-paw has long, irregularly lobed fronds that spread out in a low arching pattern from the rootstock. Consequently, the plant needs ample room for lateral growth. Keep in mind that this native of the Philippines and Taiwan is an epiphyte--it prefers to grow perched on tree branches rather than rooted in the ground. Because its roots are used to being exposed to air circulation, the bear's-paw fern is happiest when it is either potted in orchid bark, or on sphagnum moss attached to a wooden slab.

How to Care for Your Plant:

LIGHT: Bright indirect sunlight is best; your bear's-paw fern will enjoy living in an unobstructed northern or eastern window.

WATERING: If your fern is potted in fir bark, do not water until you've tested its moisture content. Gently push a newly sharpened pencil about two inches down into the orchid bark (avoid damaging any roots). If the exposed pencil wood just below the lead point is dampened, the bark is still too wet to water. If the pencil comes up dry, however, water the plant thoroughly by placing it in a mild stream of tepid water for three to four minutes. Afterward, allow the plant to drain thoroughly.

FEEDING: Feed the plant only when it is actively growing, and then do so sparingly. Use an all purpose houseplant fertilizer applied at half the concentration and frequency listed in the product directions.

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS: Like almost all ferns, bear's-paw ferns prefer high humidity; consider using a room humidifier, especially in winter. If your plant is set or hung near a window pane, it will also benefit from the moisture that collects on the glass.