Kangaroo Paw Fern (Microsorum diversifolium) is a unique and relatively low-maintenance fern native to Australia and parts of New Zealand. It’s named for the shape of its irregular, lobed fronds, which resemble the toes of a kangaroo’s paw. This visual quirk makes it stand out among more traditional ferns like Boston Fern, which has more uniform, finely divided leaves. Unlike many ferns that demand high humidity and constant moisture, Kangaroo Paw Fern is much more forgiving. It has leathery, glossy leaves that retain moisture better than the soft, delicate foliage of typical ferns. This means it can tolerate drier indoor conditions and doesn’t wilt as easily if you miss a watering. In the world of ferns, that’s a big advantage, especially for beginners.
Scientifically, it belongs to the Polypodiaceae family, which includes several epiphytic ferns. Kangaroo Paw Ferns naturally grow on rocks or tree trunks in shaded, humid forests, where they draw nutrients from rainwater, decomposing matter, and the air. This epiphytic nature is shared with related ferns like Staghorn Ferns (Platycerium spp.), though Kangaroo Paw is more compact and easier to grow in soil. It was introduced to the houseplant trade more recently than classic ferns like Boston or Asparagus Ferns, but it quickly gained a following for being both visually striking and easier to manage. Unlike the fussy care needs of Maidenhair Ferns, Kangaroo Paw Fern tolerates a range of indoor conditions - from bathrooms with bright, indirect light to office spaces with filtered or even fluorescent lighting.
In short, while many ferns are beautiful but demanding, Kangaroo Paw Fern offers a balanced option: fern-like charm without the high-maintenance care. In the next sections, we’ll break down exactly how to help it thrive in your space.
Can this plant grow outdoors?
Kangaroo Paw Fern can grow outdoors, but only in the right climate. It thrives best in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11, where temperatures remain mild and frost is rare. In these regions, it can be grown in shaded or partially shaded areas, such as under trees, on shaded patios, or in protected garden beds where it mimics its natural habitat on forest floors or tree trunks.
Outdoors, this fern prefers humid, sheltered locations with indirect light and well-draining soil. It doesn't tolerate direct, scorching sun, which can scorch its leathery leaves, or heavy frost, which can damage or kill the plant. If you're in a cooler zone, it’s best to grow Kangaroo Paw Fern in a pot so it can be brought indoors during colder months.
Because it’s epiphytic by nature, it can also be mounted or grown in hanging baskets outdoors, as long as the humidity is adequate and it’s protected from harsh weather. In mild coastal climates or subtropical areas, it makes an excellent low-maintenance addition to shady garden corners or vertical plant displays.
General Care
Lighting
Kangaroo Paw Fern prefers bright, indirect light, both indoors and outdoors. It thrives in filtered light conditions that mimic its natural environment - under the dappled canopy of trees. Direct sun, especially harsh afternoon rays, can burn its leaves, causing browning and drying at the edges. However, it also doesn’t do well in deep shade, where light levels are too low to support healthy growth.
Indoors, place it near an east- or north-facing window, or a few feet away from a bright south- or west-facing window with sheer curtains to diffuse the light. If natural light is limited, this fern can adapt to artificial lighting, making it suitable for offices or interior rooms with fluorescent or LED grow lights.
Outdoors, the ideal spot is somewhere with morning sun and afternoon shade, or consistent bright ambient light throughout the day. Too much sun can cause stress, while too little light can result in slow growth and stretched, pale fronds. Balanced lighting will help the plant maintain its glossy green foliage and unique, lobed leaf shape.
Watering
This fern likes steady moisture but hates sitting in wet soil. It's actually pretty tough compared to other ferns because it grows on tree bark and rocks in the wild, not planted in the ground.
For indoor plants, let the top inch of soil dry out, then water it well until water comes out the drainage holes. Don't leave it sitting in a saucer of water that'll rot the roots.
Use light, airy soil that drains well. Mix some orchid potting medium with regular potting soil. The roots are made to soak up moisture from rain and humidity, not sit in heavy, waterlogged dirt.
If you can grow it outside in a warm climate, it mostly takes care of itself except when it gets really dry. Shady areas that get morning dew or regular rain usually keep it content, but you'll need to check the soil during hot, dry stretches.
When it's hot and bright, you'll water more often. During cool, wet weather, ease up and let the rain do the work.
Soil and Fertilizer
This fern does best in loose, airy soil that mimics how it grows in nature—clinging to rocks and trees where it stays moist but drains well. Mix regular potting soil with orchid bark, perlite, or coco coir. This combo holds enough moisture without getting waterlogged, which prevents root rot.
Stay away from heavy, dense soils like clay mixes or pure peat that hold too much water. These can choke the roots and cause fungal issues. If you're using store-bought potting mix, add about 30% orchid bark or perlite to help it drain better.
For feeding, give it diluted liquid fertilizer during the growing season from spring through early fall. Use half the recommended strength every month or so. Water the plant first before fertilizing since this fern is touchy about salt buildup—too much can burn the roots.
Skip the fertilizer completely in winter when growth slows down. The plant doesn't need extra nutrients when it's dormant, and feeding it then can actually stress it out or leave residue in the soil.
Image by Succulents Box
Temperature and Humidity
This fern comes from Australia and New Zealand, where it enjoys mild weather, high humidity, and filtered light. Indoors, it's happy with normal room temperatures between 60°F and 75°F. Keep it away from cold drafts, air conditioning vents, and anywhere it might get below 50°F. Cold snaps can damage the fronds and stress the roots, leading to poor growth or die-back.
Humidity matters a lot for this plant. In the wild, it gets consistently moist air, so you'll want to aim for around 50% humidity or higher at home. If your house runs dry, especially in winter, try a humidifier nearby, group it with other plants that like moisture, or set the pot on a tray of water and pebbles.
You can grow it outside year-round in zones 9-11 where it stays mild and frost-free. In colder areas, treat it like a seasonal plant or bring it inside for winter. Even outdoors in a shaded spot, it'll appreciate the natural humidity but might need some misting or extra water during dry spells.
Toxicity
Kangaroo Paw Fern is considered non-toxic to both humans and pets, making it a safe choice for households with children, cats, or dogs. According to the ASPCA and other reputable plant safety databases, there are no known toxic compounds in this fern that would cause harm if accidentally touched or ingested in small amounts. While it's not poisonous, it’s still a good idea to discourage pets or young children from chewing on the leaves. Even non-toxic plants can cause mild digestive upset if consumed in larger quantities, and nibbling can damage the plant’s appearance and health.
What extra care does this fern need?
Potting and Repotting
Kangaroo Paw Fern thrives when potted in a container that offers excellent drainage and breathability. When first potting your Kangaroo Paw Fern after bringing it home from a nursery, inspect the roots and remove any old or compacted soil. Choose a pot that’s slightly larger than the root ball with ample drainage holes. Terracotta pots are especially helpful for this fern because they allow moisture to evaporate through the sides, helping to prevent overwatering.
Repotting is typically needed every 1 to 2 years, or when the fern becomes root-bound. Signs it’s time to repot include roots circling the pot’s bottom, water draining too quickly, or noticeably slower growth. Spring is the ideal time to repot, giving the plant time to settle in during the active growing season. When repotting, gently loosen the roots and refresh the potting mix, but avoid disturbing the rhizomes too much, as they can be sensitive to handling. This fern prefers a slightly snug pot and doesn’t like being moved too frequently, so only repot when necessary.
Image by Succulents Box
Pruning
Kangaroo Paw Fern doesn’t require heavy pruning, but occasional maintenance goes a long way in keeping it looking its best. Regularly removing dead, yellowing, or damaged fronds not only improves the plant’s appearance but also helps prevent potential pest or fungal issues. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears and trim the fronds at their base, close to the rhizome, without cutting into the rhizome itself.
This fern has a naturally loose, arching growth habit, so it doesn’t need shaping. However, if it becomes too dense or starts crowding its container, you can thin out some of the older fronds to allow light and airflow to reach the center of the plant. Pruning during the growing season (spring or summer) is ideal, as this is when the plant is most resilient and actively producing new growth.
Avoid cutting back healthy green fronds unnecessarily—Kangaroo Paw Ferns rely on their fronds for photosynthesis and energy storage. Prune only when needed to remove spent growth or control overcrowding.
Propagation
You can propagate this fern in two ways: division (which is easy) or spores (which takes forever and is pretty tricky).
Division is what most people do. You carefully split up a mature plant at the rhizomes—those thick, creeping stems that grow along the soil surface. Each piece needs some fronds and a good chunk of rhizome with roots attached. Spring or early summer works best since the plant is actively growing. After you separate the sections, pot them up in fresh, well-draining soil and water lightly while they get established.
You can also grow new plants from spores if you're feeling ambitious. Those tiny brown dots on the undersides of mature fronds are the spores. You'd collect them and sow them on sterile, moist growing medium like peat and sand. The whole setup needs to stay humid and warm with indirect light. The spores first turn into a heart-shaped stage, then eventually become a new fern. This whole process takes months and requires constant attention to moisture and cleanliness.
Most home gardeners stick with division since it's so much easier and faster. Spore propagation is really more for serious fern enthusiasts or people who like a challenge.
Common Problems
Kangaroo Paw Fern is low-maintenance but can develop issues from improper watering, humidity, or lighting.
- Yellowing fronds are usually caused by overwatering or poor drainage. The thick rhizomes are prone to rot in soggy soil, so ensure good drainage and avoid waterlogged conditions. Conversely, underwatering causes fronds to become dry and crispy, browning from the edges inward. Maintain moist but not waterlogged soil.
- Low humidity, especially during winter indoors, can cause frond browning and stress. Combat this with regular misting, a humidifier, or a pebble tray with water.
- Leaf spotting or wilting may indicate pests like mealybugs, scale insects, or spider mites, though these are relatively rare. Keep the plant clean by wiping leaves and inspecting regularly. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Stunted growth or dull foliage indicates insufficient light. While tolerant of low to medium indirect light, the fern needs some bright, filtered light for healthy growth and vibrant green fronds. Too much shade makes plants leggy, while direct sun can scorch leaves, causing pale patches or browning.
