Crocodile Fern (Microsorum musifolium 'Crocodyllus')

Large native fern with long vibrant apple-green leaves with a snakeskin-like mosaic marking all over.

Plant in free draining soil in a shaded sheltered frost-free location. Mulch after planting to retain moisture and regulate soil temperatures as the young plant establishes.

Keep moist during dry periods; reduce water in the winter. Ferns thrive in humid conditions and are happier to have wet leaves than wet roots.

Apply a slow release fertiliser during spring and a half-strength diluted liquid fertiliser every 4-6 weeks during the warmer months. Re-pot container plants as they are outgrowing their pots.

Protect from frost.

Full height and width is 1.5m.