Macho Fern

Plant Specifications

• Plant Name Macho Fern (Nephrolepis biserrata)
• Mature Height 24 – 48 in
• Mature Width 36 – 48 in
• Spacing 3 ft apart
• Sunlight Bright indirect or partial shade
• Temperature Tolerance 55 – 90 °F
• Watering Needs High; keep consistently moist
• Growth Rate Fast
• Difficulty Level Easy
• Grows Well Indoors Yes — thrives with humidity
• Flowering Time Non-flowering
• Origin Tropical Americas

Plant Description

The Macho Fern is bold and dramatic, with sweeping green fronds that make any space feel lush and alive. Its tropical fullness gives instant volume to patios, porches, or shaded interiors. Despite its grand name, this fern is friendly and forgiving, thriving wherever there’s warmth and moisture.

How to Grow

Provide bright indirect light or filtered shade. Use rich, well-draining soil and keep it consistently moist, but never waterlogged. If indoors, boost humidity with misting or a pebble tray to mimic its tropical origins.

Care Tips

Trim older fronds as they fade to encourage new, lush growth. Feed every six weeks during spring and summer with a diluted houseplant fertilizer. Avoid harsh sunlight, which can scorch delicate fronds.

Uses

Excellent for hanging baskets, shaded entryways, or poolside planters. The Macho Fern’s cascading form creates a soft, inviting look that complements structured plants or architecture.

Planting Tips

When potting, leave space at the top for easy watering. Combine potting soil with peat and perlite for the perfect mix of moisture and aeration.

Maintenance

Keep leaves clean with occasional misting and gently shake off dust. Prune periodically to maintain symmetry and fullness. Bring indoors if temperatures drop below 55 °F.