The Tricolor Fern (Pteris ensiformis ‘Evergemiensis’) is an ornamental houseplant prized for its unique, three-color variegated foliage, featuring shades of green, white, and pinkish-red. Its vibrant appearance makes it a popular choice for adding visual interest to indoor spaces.
Tricolor Fern Care Essentials
Light Needs
Tricolor Ferns thrive in bright, indirect light. A north or east-facing window with filtered sunlight is ideal. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch delicate fronds, causing color loss or crispiness. Insufficient light causes leggy growth and diminished color.
Watering Schedule
Maintain consistent soil moisture, avoiding waterlogging. Overwatering causes root rot; underwatering leads to dry, crispy fronds. Water thoroughly when the top one to two inches of soil feel dry. Ensure excess water drains, preventing the fern from sitting in standing water. Distilled or filtered water prevents mineral buildup, especially with hard tap water.
Humidity Requirements
High humidity levels, ideally 70-80%, are preferred by the Tricolor Fern. Low humidity can cause frond tips and edges to brown and dry. To increase humidity, place the plant on a pebble tray, use a room humidifier, or group several plants together. Regular light misting helps, but avoid excessive dampness to prevent mold.
Ideal Soil Mix
Tricolor Ferns need a well-draining potting mix that retains some moisture. A peat-based soil is recommended. Amendments like perlite, pine bark, or coco coir enhance drainage and aeration. A general-purpose houseplant mix with added perlite or sand also works. The fern prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH.
Temperature Range
Tricolor Ferns are tropical plants that prefer warm, stable temperatures, ideally 60-75°F (15-24°C). They are sensitive to cold drafts and temperatures below 50°F (10°C). Keep them away from air conditioners, heating vents, or open windows during colder periods to maintain a consistent environment.
Fertilizing Guidelines
Fertilizing supports healthy growth and vibrant frond coloration during spring and summer. Feed once a month with a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength. Ferns are sensitive to excess fertilizer; over-fertilization can burn leaf tips or stunt growth. Reduce or stop fertilization during fall and winter when growth slows.
Addressing Common Tricolor Fern Issues
Understanding Browning Fronds
Browning fronds on a Tricolor Fern indicate environmental stressors. Low humidity is a frequent cause, causing dry, crispy tips. Insufficient watering also causes dry, browning foliage. Hard water or chemical sensitivities from tap water or excess fertilizer also contribute to browning. Increasing ambient humidity, maintaining consistent soil moisture, and using distilled or filtered water improves the fern’s condition.
Maintaining Vibrant Color
Loss of the Tricolor Fern’s distinctive variegation is linked to insufficient light. Insufficient bright, indirect light diminishes colorful patterns. Moving the fern to a brighter location with filtered light restores vibrant coloration. Adequate, but not excessive, fertilization during its growing season also supports overall plant health and color intensity.
Dealing with Pests
Tricolor Ferns can occasionally be affected by common houseplant pests. Spider mites cause stippling or discoloration on leaves, sometimes with webbing. Mealybugs are small, white, cotton-like masses on leaves and stems, feeding on sap. Aphids also cause curled or distorted fronds.
These pests are managed with insecticidal soap or neem oil applications. Regular inspection helps detect infestations early for prompt treatment.
Propagating Tricolor Ferns
Tricolor Ferns are most commonly propagated by division. Perform this during repotting, ideally in spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Gently remove the fern from its pot and carefully tease apart the root ball.
Separate new sections, ensuring each has a portion of the root system and at least one healthy frond or stem. If dense, use a clean, sharp knife or scissors to divide the rhizomes. Plant each divided section into its own pot with a suitable, well-draining potting mix. Maintain high humidity for newly established plants to encourage successful rooting and growth.