Asian sword fern (Nephrolepis brownii)

Asian sword fern

Asian sword fern is an elegant fern with arching, lance-shaped fronds that display a lush, feathery appearance. Its fronds typically reach up to a meter in length, making it a standout among ferns. The delicate leaflets, or pinnae, grow in a manner that somewhat resembles a fish's scales, providing a unique texture. Preferring warm and humid conditions, asian sword fern thrives in dappled sunlight, often found in the understory of forests where it contributes a touch of graceful greenery.

Scientific classification

Species

Asian sword fern (Nephrolepis brownii)

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

61 cm to 91 cm

Plant Height

Images of Asian sword fern

Distribution of Asian sword fern

Distribution Map

Asian sword fern is natively distributed across Asia and the Pacific, from the Indian subcontinent to Southeast Asia, extending to Japan and southwards through the archipelagos to New Zealand and Fiji. Its introduced range spans across several mainland North and South American regions, the Caribbean, and even reaches the Pacific islands in Papua New Guinea.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Habitat

Forests

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Interesting Facts

Nephrolepis exaltata var. bostoniens is a drooping foliage-viewing plant, but in the seedling stage, it grows gracefully upward. As it continues to grow, its branches gradually drop, and then it can be made into a hanging plant for display.

Get quick plant knowledge with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant identification and learn about its name, symbolism, interesting facts, uses, and more.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for Asian sword fern

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Asian sword fern thrives in humid subtropical environments, favoring consistent moisture and benefiting from higher indoor humidity. Water weekly to maintain hydration, and enjoy its evergreen nature with stable water needs throughout the year. Ideal for bathrooms or kitchens with moisture.

Fertilize: For asian sword fern, apply high-nitrogen fertilizers quarterly during growing seasons, following product instructions. Reduce feeding in winter. Water soil before fertilizing to enhance nutrient absorption. Adhere to labeled ratios to avoid over-fertilization, ensuring robust health and vitality.

Pruning: Asian sword fern, featuring lush fronds, benefits from occasional pruning in early to late spring. Trim dead or yellow fronds at the base using clean tools to enhance growth and airflow, while avoiding over-pruning to minimize stress. Consistent care supports its vitality and aesthetics.

Propagation: Propagate asian sword fern via cutting by selecting healthy fronds, making a clean cut, and planting in well-draining soil. Keep the cut end beneath the surface and maintain consistent moisture and warmth. Root development takes several weeks, producing robust clones for garden enthusiasts.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free

Learn More About Asian sword fern