Petra

Fern on lava

Microsorum diversifolium; Fishtail fern; Elkhorn fern; Star fern; Climbing bird’s nest fern

• 
  Easy care
• 
  Most light conditions

• Petra likes...
  • 
    Light watering

    Keep her tray topped up with water and she'll absorb what she needs from the lava. If any roots touch the tray, gently trim them.

  • 
    Medium light

    She’ll thrive in a spot that gets a good amount of light through the day. She’s not keen on harsh sunlight.

  • 
    Humidity

    She loves humidity. Make sure she gets plenty by spraying her with a mister every few days.

• Quick facts

  Botanical name

  Microsorum diversifolium

  Nickname

  Fishtail fern; Elkhorn fern; Star fern; Climbing bird’s nest fern

  Air purifying

  Yes

  Plant height

  30-40cm

  Pet/Baby safe

  Yes

  Tray size

  22.5cm W x 12.5cm D

• About Lava Fern

  In forests of South-East Asia, you’d typically find this fern growing in the crevices of trees. This one has been specially grown on lava, which makes super easy to look after, as well as looking amazing.

  The fern’s roots have grown around the lava, a porous stone. As the lava absorbs water from the tray, the plant takes all the water it needs from the stone. Try to keep the tray about three-quarters full. If any roots grow down and touch the surface of the water, trim them with scissors. It will stop the plant sucking up too much water and turning yellow.

  If you need to move your fern lift it by the tray, not the lava rock, to avoid damaging the rock or plant. Every piece of lava rock is unique, so the one you receive will differ from the one in the pictures. Over time, you may see light white marks or green algae appear on the rock. This can look beautiful, but if you'd rather remove it you can do so by lightly scrubbing with a toothbrush (best not the one you're currently using).

  Petra comes securely attached to the black tray shown in the photos. No need to purchase any pots or soil.

  Did you know?

  In some cultures, the juice of the Fishtail fern is used for healing wounds (we don’t recommend trying this).