The resurrection fern ( Polypodium polypodioides or Pleopeltis polypodioides) is a captivating plant renowned for its remarkable ability to seemingly return to life after periods of extreme dryness. This unique fern, classified as an epiphyte, naturally grows on the surfaces of other plants, such as trees, or on rocks, without drawing nutrients from its host.
Understanding the Resurrection Phenomenon
During dry periods, the fern’s fronds curl tightly inward and change color, often appearing shriveled and grayish-brown, resembling a dead plant. This transformation is a natural survival mechanism, allowing the plant to lose a significant amount of its water content, sometimes up to 97%, without permanent damage. Most other plants can only tolerate a water loss of about 10% before they perish.
When moisture returns, through rain or increased humidity, the fern’s fronds rapidly absorb water, unfurling and regaining their vibrant green appearance. This process is possible due to specialized proteins within its cells that stabilize their structure during dehydration, preventing cellular collapse. The fern essentially suspends its biological functions, including photosynthesis, during dormancy and resumes them upon rehydration. This cyclical behavior is a testament to its adaptation to environments with fluctuating water availability.
Essential Environmental Needs
This plant thrives in bright, indirect light, mimicking its natural habitat beneath tree canopies. Placing it near an east or north-facing window indoors is often suitable, as these locations offer gentle morning light or ambient light throughout the day, preventing scorching of its delicate fronds. While it can tolerate full shade, some indirect light encourages more robust growth.
Watering the resurrection fern differs from typical potted plants, as it benefits from cycles of wet and dry to encourage its “resurrection” trait. It can be watered through misting or soaking, allowing it to dry out completely between applications. Overwatering or consistently soggy conditions can lead to root rot. This fern is remarkably adaptable to temperature variations, tolerating conditions from around -15°C (5°F) to 43°C (109°F), but moderate temperatures between 21-27°C (70-80°F) are generally preferred. Higher humidity levels can promote greener growth, and misting can help maintain this if the environment is dry.
Resurrection ferns are not heavy feeders, acquiring nutrients from the air and organic matter on the surfaces where they grow. Fertilization is generally not required, or should be done sparingly, using a highly diluted liquid houseplant fertilizer during the growing season. A diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer applied quarterly or biannually can provide a slight boost without overfeeding.
Mounting and Displaying Your Fern
Common methods for displaying this fern involve mounting it on materials like wood, cork bark, or rocks. Rough-barked trees, such as oaks or cypress, provide suitable surfaces in outdoor settings due to their textured bark.
To mount the fern, a piece of moistened peat moss can be placed on the chosen substrate, with the fern then positioned on top. The fern’s rhizomes can be gently tied in place with string until it establishes itself. Natural materials like moss or coconut coir can also be used to secure the fern and help maintain humidity during initial establishment. Once established, the string can be removed.
Addressing Common Concerns
If a resurrection fern appears consistently brown and fails to turn green after watering, several factors could be at play. Insufficient or infrequent watering may be the cause, as the fern needs moisture to revive. Prolonged dormancy, or poor health due to issues like root rot from too much moisture, can also prevent rehydration. If the fern remains brown even after receiving water, it might indicate it has been kept continuously wet, preventing the essential dry-wet cycle.
A fern that always appears brown, even when watered, might be experiencing consistent high humidity without proper drying periods, or it could be a sign of root rot. Some shriveling and browning are normal during dry periods, but if the plant remains shriveled and crispy even after rehydration attempts, it suggests a lack of adequate moisture cycles. The resurrection fern is generally pest and disease-resistant, reducing common plant problems.