Sphaeropteris brunei

Tree fern

★

Taxonomy

Common Names

Tree fern

Context

nativeRegion

Native to Brunei and surrounding regions in Borneo, Southeast Asia.

usdaZones

Suitable for USDA zones 10-11; grown in greenhouses or indoor gardens elsewhere.

companionPlants

Ficus spp., Alocasia spp., Anthurium spp., Calathea spp.

culturalUses

Primarily cultivated as an ornamental plant for tropical gardens and botanical collections.

Care

LightPrefers bright, filtered light or partial shade; avoid direct harsh sun.

WateringKeep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; prefers high humidity.

SoilNeeds rich, organic, well-draining soil; loamy or slightly acidic substrate is ideal.

FertilizerApply a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during the growing season.

HumidityHigh humidity (above 60%) is necessary; mist regularly or use a humidifier.

TemperatureThrives in temperatures between 18-25°C (64-77°F); intolerant of frost.

HabitLarge, evergreen tree fern with a single upright trunk and a crown of large, feathery fronds.

Mature SizeCan reach 10-15 meters (33-50 feet) in height; fronds may span 2-4 meters (6-13 feet).

Growth RateModerate to slow growth rate depending on conditions.

BloomingDoes not bloom; reproduces via spores borne on the underside of mature fronds.

DormancyNo true dormancy, but may slow growth in cooler or drier periods.

MethodsSpores, Offsets (if present at base)

DifficultyDifficult; spore propagation requires sterile and humid conditions.

Best SeasonWarm months, primarily spring and summer.

PruningRemove dead or damaged fronds as needed; avoid cutting healthy growing tips.

RepottingInfrequently needed; transplant only when rootbound or necessary due to size.

Pests & DiseasesOccasionally susceptible to scale, mealybugs, and root rot in overly wet soils.

ToxicityConsidered non-toxic to humans and pets.

No public plants yet.