Microgramma reptans
Best choice for terrarium enthusiasts seeking a unique, mountable tropical fern.
Discover the unique Microgramma reptans, an epiphytic fern native to Central and South America. This plant is known for its distinct sporulating fronds and leaves roughly twice the size of its close relative, Microgramma vacciniifolia. It thrives in warm, humid environments and requires medium to high moisture levels. For the best display and growth, this fern is best mounted rather than potted. It ships as a healthy rhizome cutting, ready to add a touch of the tropics to your home.
$17.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
141
/ 9235
#141 in Potted Houseplants
Price vs Category Average
-66%
Below average
Species
Microgramma reptans
/ Microgramma reptans
Who it's for
- Aquascapers looking for unique, fuzzy textural contrast
- Terrarium hobbyists seeking fine-scale, naturalistic groundcover
- Busy plant owners wanting low-maintenance, lush greenery
Who should skip it
- Beginners struggling with precise moisture and airflow management
- Houseplant collectors without a dedicated humid enclosure
- Impatient gardeners desiring immediate, full-coverage results
Performance breakdown
Terrarium Suitability
Epiphytic nature makes this an ideal candidate for vertical vivarium displays.
Mounting Potential
Thrives best when attached to wood or cork rather than soil.
Visual Distinctiveness
Larger foliage and unique sporulating fronds create a striking tropical aesthetic.
Care Complexity
Requires consistent humidity and moisture levels suited for experienced plant enthusiasts.
Growth Adaptability
Steady medium growth rate rewards patience with lush, trailing foliage.
Propagation Readiness
Rhizome cutting format allows for immediate integration into established tropical setups.
Key Specs
Species
Microgramma reptans
Native Range
Bolivia, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Ecuador
Growth Preference
Warm growing
Moisture Requirement
Medium to high
Growth Habit
Epiphytic, Trailing
Shipped Size
4-6 leaf rhizome cutting
Care Level
Intermediate
Watering Frequency
Moderate to High
Features
- Epiphytic growth habit, ideal for mounting
- Distinct sporulating fronds
- Larger leaves than Microgramma vacciniifolia
- Requires warm growing conditions
- Prefers medium to high moisture
- Ships as a healthy rhizome cutting
- Suitable for terrarium display
- Intermediate care level
What customers say
The quality of the Microgramma reptans is a consistent highlight, with customers frequently noting the plant's robust health and vibrant appearance immediately upon unpacking. The careful, secure packaging ensures the delicate foliage arrives pristine, establishing confidence in the supplier. Enthusiasts appreciate the generous size of the specimens, confirming excellent value for money and making this a reliable choice for adding texture to enclosed environments. This focus on delivering healthy, established plants drives high satisfaction among specialized hobbyists.
Know before you buy
While you can attempt to pot it, Microgramma reptans is an epiphytic fern that performs significantly better when mounted. Using a mount like cork bark or tree fern fiber mimics its natural growth habit and helps prevent the rhizome from staying too wet, which can lead to rot.
This fern is classified as an intermediate care plant. It requires consistent humidity and specific moisture levels to thrive, so it is best suited for hobbyists who are comfortable managing terrarium environments or frequent misting routines.
Your rhizome cutting should be mounted as soon as possible after arrival. Secure it to your chosen substrate using fishing line or floral wire, ensuring the rhizome has direct contact with the surface, and place it in a warm, humid environment with bright, indirect light.
No, Microgramma reptans is not considered pet-safe. It is best kept in a secure terrarium or an area of your home that is inaccessible to curious cats or dogs.
This fern prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid placing it in direct sun, which can scorch the leaves, or in deep shade, which will slow its growth and cause the fronds to become leggy.
The primary difference is size; Microgramma reptans features leaves that are roughly twice the size of those found on M. vacciniifolia. It also displays distinct sporulating fronds that provide a unique visual texture.
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$18