About Kangaroo Fern
An unusual fern with thick, glossy, irregularly lobed fronds that look nothing like a typical fern. The leathery, dark green fronds vary in shape from simple to deeply divided, sometimes on the same plant. It grows from a creeping, fuzzy rhizome and is far more drought-tolerant than most ferns. The common name comes from its Australian origin. Kangaroo Fern belongs to the Polypodiaceae family and originates from Australia — native to eastern Australian rainforests and coastal areas..
Kangaroo Fern is a newcomer to the Philippine plant scene, gaining attention from fern collectors looking for unusual species beyond the standard Boston and maidenhair ferns. Its thick, leathery fronds and drought tolerance make it a more practical choice for busy Metro Manila plant owners who forget to water. Available at specialty plant shops in Quezon City, online sellers on Shopee and Facebook, and occasionally at plant fairs. The related Crocodile Fern (Microsorum musifolium) has a larger following in the Philippines due to its dramatic texture. Both thrive in the Philippine climate with minimal fuss.
Also known as: Kangaroo Paw Fern, Microsorum.
Popular Varieties
- Microsorum diversifolium (standard — variable-shaped glossy fronds)
- Microsorum pustulatum (Kangaroo Fern cousin — raised bumps on fronds)
- Microsorum musifolium 'Crocodyllus' (Crocodile Fern — crocodile-skin textured fronds)
How to Plant Kangaroo Fern in the Philippines
Kangaroo Fern can be propagated through rhizome division, spores. The recommended method is division of the creeping rhizome during repotting.
Propagation Steps
- Step 1: Carefully remove the fern from its pot and identify sections of the hairy, creeping rhizome.
- Step 2: Cut rhizome sections 8-10 cm long with at least 2-3 fronds and attached roots.
- Step 3: Plant shallowly — the rhizome should rest on the soil surface, not be buried.
- Step 4: Use a well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and orchid bark.
- Step 5: Keep in warm shade and mist every other day — new fronds appear in 3-5 weeks.
Care Guide
Sunlight
Medium to bright indirect light. Handles lower light well. Avoid direct sun which can scorch the glossy fronds.. Position your kangaroo fern where it receives the right amount of light for healthy growth in Philippine conditions.
Water
Water when the top 2-3 cm of soil dries. Approximately twice weekly in Metro Manila. More drought-tolerant than most ferns due to the thick, leathery fronds. Adjust frequency during the Philippine rainy season when humidity is higher and soil stays moist longer.
Temperature & Humidity
Ideal temperature range: 18-30°C (adapts to Philippine lowland temperatures). Tolerates brief cooler periods better than tropical ferns.. Moderate (40-60%). One of the more humidity-tolerant ferns — handles typical air-conditioned indoor conditions better than most. The warm, humid Philippine climate is well-suited for growing kangaroo fern outdoors or indoors.
Fertilizer
Light feeder. Apply diluted liquid fertilizer (quarter strength) once a month during growing season. Over-fertilizing causes brown tips.
Pruning
Remove old or damaged fronds at the base. The creeping rhizome is a natural feature — do not remove or bury it.
Toxicity & Safety
Non-toxic to cats and dogs. A safe fern choice for households with pets.
Common Problems & Solutions
Fronds losing glossy appearance
Cause: Too much direct light or very low humidity
Solution: Move to medium indirect light. Mist occasionally or use a pebble tray to maintain some humidity.
Brown tips on new fronds
Cause: Hard water, over-fertilizing, or inconsistent watering
Solution: Use filtered or rain water. Reduce fertilizer strength. Water consistently.
Rhizome drying out or shriveling
Cause: Soil too dry for too long
Solution: Soak the pot in water for 15 minutes, then drain. Resume regular watering schedule.
Scale insects on frond undersides
Cause: Indoor conditions with low air movement
Solution: Inspect glossy leaf undersides regularly. Remove scale with a soft cloth dipped in neem oil.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you care for Kangaroo Fern in the Philippines?
Kangaroo Fern needs medium to bright indirect light. handles lower light well. avoid direct sun which can scorch the glossy fronds.. Water when the top 2-3 cm of soil dries. approximately twice weekly in metro manila. more drought-tolerant than most ferns due to the thick, leathery fronds.. Feed with light feeder. apply diluted liquid fertilizer (quarter strength) once a month during growing season. over-fertilizing causes brown tips.. The Philippine climate with temperatures of 18-30°C (adapts to Philippine lowland temperatures). Tolerates brief cooler periods better than tropical ferns. works well for this plant.
How do you propagate Kangaroo Fern?
The recommended method is division of the creeping rhizome during repotting. Carefully remove the fern from its pot and identify sections of the hairy, creeping rhizome. Cut rhizome sections 8-10 cm long with at least 2-3 fronds and attached roots.
Is Kangaroo Fern toxic to pets or children?
Non-toxic to cats and dogs. A safe fern choice for households with pets.
Can Kangaroo Fern grow in containers in the Philippines?
Yes, Kangaroo Fern grows well in containers and is suitable for balcony and indoor gardening in Metro Manila condos and apartments. Use a pot with drainage holes and appropriate potting mix.
What are common problems when growing Kangaroo Fern?
Common issues include: Fronds losing glossy appearance (caused by too much direct light or very low humidity — move to medium indirect light. mist occasionally or use a pebble tray to maintain some humidity); Brown tips on new fronds (caused by hard water, over-fertilizing, or inconsistent watering — use filtered or rain water. reduce fertilizer strength. water consistently); Rhizome drying out or shriveling (caused by soil too dry for too long — soak the pot in water for 15 minutes, then drain. resume regular watering schedule).
Growing kangaroo fern in Manila? Tag us @urbangoesgreen on TikTok and show us your garden!