Angiopteris evecta
Angiopteris evecta
King Fern
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Taxonomy
Family Marattiaceae · Genus Angiopteris
Description
Angiopteris evecta, the King Fern, is a prehistoric-looking giant with enormous arching fronds that create instant jungle drama. It loves warm, humid shade, rich soils, and steady moisture—perfect for tropical gardens or spacious greenhouses.
Common Names
King FernGiant FernElephant FernOriental Vessel Fern
Context
nativeRegion
Tropical Southeast Asia to Melanesia and Polynesia, including New Guinea and northern Australia.
usdaZones
10–12 (9b with protection)
companionPlants
Alocasia, Anthurium, Monstera, Philodendron, Calathea (Goeppertia), Tree ferns (Cyathea), Gingers (Alpinia, Hedychium), Aspidistra
culturalUses
Grown ornamentally for dramatic foliage; in parts of the Pacific, the starchy corm has been used as emergency food after thorough processing. Fronds may be used decoratively; invasive in some regions (e.g., Hawaii).
Care
Care Requirements
LightBright indirect light to dappled shade; protect from harsh midday sun.
WateringKeep evenly and consistently moist; never allow to dry out. Avoid waterlogging by ensuring excellent drainage.
SoilRich, humus-heavy, moisture-retentive yet free-draining mix; slightly acidic (pH ~5.5–6.5). Add compost, fine bark, and perlite.
FertilizerDuring warm seasons, feed lightly but regularly with a balanced, slow-release or dilute liquid fertilizer; supplement with compost.
HumidityHigh humidity (60–90% ideal). Mist, use pebble trays, or run a humidifier in dry climates.
TemperatureWarmth-loving: 65–85°F (18–29°C) ideal; avoid prolonged drops below 55°F (13°C). No frost.
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitMassive clumping fern with a short, swollen crown and extremely long, arching fronds.
Mature SizeFronds 10–20 ft (3–6 m) long; crown spread 8–15 ft (2.5–4.5 m).
Growth RateModerate to fast in warm, humid, fertile conditions.
BloomingNo flowers; produces spores on fertile fronds.
DormancyEvergreen in tropics; may shed fronds or pause growth in cool or dry conditions.
Propagation
MethodsSpores, Division of rhizome/corm
DifficultyModerate to difficult (spores are slow; division requires large, established plants).
Best SeasonLate spring to summer
Maintenance & Notes
PruningRemove yellowing or spent fronds at the base with clean tools; avoid injuring the crown.
RepottingRepot every 2–3 years in spring into a wide, heavy container for stability; keep the crown above the soil line.
Pests & DiseasesScale, mealybugs, snails/slugs, and spider mites in dry air. Crown/roots may rot if poorly drained.
ToxicityToxicity not well documented; treat as potentially harmful if ingested. Corm reportedly edible only after extensive processing. Spore dust may irritate.
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