Green flame fern in a 4 inch nursery pot

Green Flame Fern

Microsorum punctatum

$30.49

Dispatches in 1 to 4 business days.

  • LightBright indirect
  • WaterKeep the soil lightly moist, never waterlogged

Understand the light, watering and pot-size symbols

Care at a glance (click to expand or collapse)
LightBright, filtered light
WaterKeep the soil lightly moist, never waterlogged
HumidityAppreciates extra humidity
Fern care guideCare notes by Nick Alan

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About this plant

A glossy, crested fern with a shape unlike any frilly fern. The green flame fern (Microsorum punctatum 'Green Flame') is a tropical, evergreen fern with wavy, upright fronds that ruffle and crest at the tips. The thick, glossy fronds hold their shape and look sculptural on a shelf or table. This page covers green flame fern care and common fern questions.

Why you'll like it

It is a conversation piece that does not look like a typical fern, and its leathery fronds are tougher than the delicate kinds. It likes the same bright, filtered light and steady moisture as other tropical ferns, so it is easy to place next to your other plants.

What you get

A live green flame fern in a 4" grower's nursery pot.

. Use a loose, airy mix and keep it away from cold drafts and hot, dry vents.

Why are ferns hard to keep alive?
Most ferns dry out quickly and dislike dry air. The fix is steady moisture, bright indirect light and some humidity, which this fern has an easier time with than the delicate kinds.

Do ferns stay green all year?
The green flame fern is evergreen, so it keeps its fronds through the year as long as it stays warm, moist and out of cold drafts.

Should I bury the rhizome of a green flame fern?
No. Keep the creeping rhizome at the soil surface rather than buried, which helps prevent rot.

Care notes by Nick Alan, founder of Palma.

Where to put this plant

Needs: Bright, indirect light

Find the window you have. Each one gives a different kind of light.

  • East-facing windowGentle morning sun, then bright shade.
    Best spot
  • South-facing windowBrightest, with sun most of the day.
    3 to 5 ft back
  • West-facing windowStrong, hot afternoon sun.
    Use a sheer curtain
  • North-facing windowSoft, steady light with no direct sun.
    Too dim

Distance changes it too

  • At the glassStrongest
  • 3 to 5 ft backAbout half
  • Across the roomDim

Find the right window with the light calculator

Compare north, east, south and west window light

Grows well alongside

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Care guides from the Journal

All articles

Questions people ask

How often should I water Green Flame Fern?

Keep the soil lightly moist, never waterlogged. Check the soil with a finger rather than watering on a set day.

How much light does Green Flame Fern need?

Bright, filtered light. The care card above lists water, size and pot fit.