Microsorum crocodyllus is a beautiful showy fern grown for its distinctive, textured fronds marked with a network of darker green veins resembling crocodile skin. Botanically classified as a cultivar of Microsorum musifolium, it produces elongated, strap-shaped fronds that emerge light green and gradually deepen in colour as they mature. The foliage is leathery and arching, forming an upright to gently spreading clump.

In indoor conditions, this fern typically reaches 6090 cm in height with fronds up to 1015 cm wide. Its steady growth habit and tolerance of typical room temperatures makes it perfect for growing indoors, provided humidity and watering are kept consistent. It is well suited to pots with free-draining substrate and benefits from stable conditions without sudden temperature changes.

Native to:
Southeast Asia, including Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, and parts of New Guinea. It grows naturally in lowland tropical rainforests as an epiphyte on tree trunks or occasionally as a lithophyte on rocks. In habitat, it experiences warm temperatures, high humidity, and dappled light beneath the forest canopy.

Water:
Keep the compost evenly moist but never waterlogged. Allow approximately the top 1/3 of the potting mix to dry slightly between waterings. Good drainage is essential, as prolonged saturation can cause rhizome rot. Reduce watering slightly in cooler months while maintaining light moisture.

Light:
Bright filtered light is ideal. Avoid direct sunlight, especially midday sun, as it can scorch the fronds and fade the veining pattern. It will tolerate moderate indirect light, but growth may slow and markings may be less pronounced.

Humidity:
Prefers moderate to high humidity, ideally 6080%. It will adapt to average indoor humidity but performs best with increased moisture in the air. Regular misting, grouping with other plants, or the use of a humidifier can help maintain consistent conditions.

Temperature:
Thrives in temperatures between 1827C. Avoid exposure to temperatures below 15C and protect from cold draughts or sudden fluctuations, which can damage foliage.