RedCrocus Macho Fern Live Plant – Nephrolepis biserrata Giant Sword Fern, Easy-Care Indoor/Outdoor Shade Houseplant 10" Pot
RedCrocus Macho Fern Live Plant – Nephrolepis biserrata Giant Sword Fern, Easy-Care Indoor/Outdoor Shade Houseplant 10" Pot
SKU:beraead-redcrocus
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Fern- Macho
Lush, oversized fronds deliver instant tropical texture indoors or in shaded outdoor spaces. Often sold as “Macho Fern,” typically Nephrolepis biserrata.
Description
The Macho Fern is prized for its bold, arching fronds and dense, fountain-like habit that adds dramatic greenery to patios, porches, shaded gardens, and bright indoor rooms. Thriving in warmth and humidity, it forms a substantial clump with glossy, pinnate fronds that soften hard edges and fill large containers with a lush, tropical look. Unlike flowering plants, ferns reproduce by spores and maintain year-round interest through their rich evergreen foliage. When given consistent moisture and indirect light, Macho Fern grows quickly and can become a showstopping specimen.
Suggested Uses
Plant Details
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Botanical NameFern- Macho (commonly sold as Macho Fern; typically Nephrolepis biserrata)
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Common NameFern- Macho; Macho Fern; Giant Sword Fern
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Size & GrowthOutdoors 3–4 ft tall and 4–6 ft wide in ideal warmth and humidity; indoors typically 2–3 ft. Dense, arching clump.
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Hardiness ZonesUSDA 9–11 (grow as a houseplant or seasonal container in cooler zones).
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Foliage TypeEvergreen fern; glossy, pinnate, leathery fronds with a fountain-like, arching habit.
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Bloom TimeNot applicable—ferns do not bloom; reproduces by spores on fronds.
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Growth RateModerate to fast with steady moisture, warmth, and humidity.
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Light RequirementsBright, indirect light to dappled shade; avoid harsh midday sun. Tolerates medium light indoors.
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Attracts PollinatorsNo—ferns are spore-producing and do not provide nectar or pollen.
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Indoor FriendlyYes—excellent houseplant in bright, filtered light with higher humidity.
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Container FriendlyYes—thrives in large pots, urns, and sturdy hanging baskets with consistent moisture.
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Deer ResistantUsually deer resistant due to coarse fronds; not preferred browse.
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Pet WarningGenerally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs; ingestion of large amounts may cause mild stomach upset.
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FragrantNo fragrance—grown for foliage interest.
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Cut FlowerFronds can be cut as long-lasting greenery in floral arrangements; recut stems and condition in clean water.
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Grows Well WithGrows Well With Caladium, coleus, impatiens, begonias, hosta (shade gardens), indoors with peace lily, pothos, philodendron.
Care Tips
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Planting InstructionsPlant after danger of frost. Loosen soil 8–12 in. and enrich with compost. Space 3–4 ft apart. Set crown at existing soil line; firm and water thoroughly.
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Soil MoistureKeep evenly moist—never bone-dry. Water when the top 0.5–1 in. of mix is slightly dry. Avoid waterlogging; ensure good drainage.
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Soil TypeRich, well-drained medium high in organic matter; peat/coir + fine bark + perlite works well. pH slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
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HumidityPrefers 50–80% relative humidity. Use a pebble tray, room humidifier, or group plants. Mist lightly to remove dust, not as sole moisture source.
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Pruning InstructionsSnip brown, damaged, or oldest fronds at the base with clean shears. Groom regularly; divide oversized clumps in spring to rejuvenate.
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Winter CareProtect below 50°F (10°C). In cool zones, bring containers indoors before cold snaps; reduce watering, maintain bright, indirect light, and avoid drafts.
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Planting DepthPlant at the same depth as the nursery pot; do not bury the crown. In containers, keep the root ball top ~0.5 in. below rim for watering space.
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FertilizationFeed monthly spring–summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer at 1/4–1/2 strength or apply a slow-release fern-friendly formula in early spring. Pause in fall/winter.
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Special CareRinse fronds periodically to remove dust. Rotate for even growth. Repot when root-bound (often every 1–2 years). Watch for mealybugs/scale—treat promptly with horticultural soap or oil.