Actiniopteris australis – Complete Growing and Care Guide
Actiniopteris australis (L.f.) Link, commonly called Eyelash Fern, is a delicate, miniature fern with fan-shaped fronds that look like fine eyelashes. Native to rocky slopes and dry forests across Africa, Asia, Australia, and Madagascar, it adapts beautifully to indoor growing. Its small size and elegant structure make it ideal for terrariums, small pots, or tropical plant arrangements.
What Makes Actiniopteris australis Special?
- Compact Size: Only 10–20 cm tall – perfect for terrariums or small spaces.
- Unique Fronds: Radiating fan-like segments for a striking look.
- Pet-Safe: Non-toxic to pets and humans.
Origin and Growth Traits
- Native Range: Africa, southern Asia, northern Australia, Madagascar.
- Habitat: Dry forests, rocky limestone areas, open woodland edges.
- Growth Habit: Upright clumps from a short creeping rhizome.
- Leaf Texture: Thin, papery fronds, deeply divided and feather-light.
- Lifestyle: Evergreen perennial under stable indoor conditions.
Care Guide – Actiniopteris australis
- Light: Bright, indirect light preferred; tolerates moderate shade but avoid direct midday sun.
- Watering: Keep soil evenly moist without waterlogging. Let top 10–15% dry slightly before watering.
- Humidity: Enjoys 50–70% humidity. Use a humidifier or group plants for extra moisture.
- Temperature: Best between 18–24 °C; avoid drops below 10 °C.
- Soil: Use a rich, well-draining mix with peat moss, perlite, and fine bark.
- Repotting: Annually or when roots fill the pot; always use drainage holes.
- Fertilizing: Feed monthly during growth with diluted liquid fertilizer.
- Propagation: Divide clumps during repotting in spring.
- Semi-Hydro: Adaptable to mineral substrates with stable moisture and humidity.
- Maintenance: Remove yellow or damaged fronds to encourage fresh growth.
Common Problems and Solutions
- Pests: Spider mites (increase humidity, use insecticidal soap), mealybugs (remove manually or apply systemic treatment).
- Root Rot: Caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Improve soil aeration and reduce watering frequency.
- Frond Browning: Often due to low humidity or hard water; use filtered water and maintain moisture levels.
Botanical Background and Etymology
- Genus: From Greek “aktis” (ray) + “pteris” (fern), for its radiating frond pattern.
- Species: “Australis” means “southern,” linked to its distribution.
- Taxonomy: First described as Acrostichum australe by Linnaeus the Younger (1782), reassigned to Actiniopteris by Link in 1841.
FAQs – Actiniopteris australis
- Low-light tolerant? Yes, but bright, indirect light gives denser growth.
- Pet-friendly? Completely non-toxic to pets and humans.
- Humidity tips? Use a humidifier or place near other plants for better microclimate.
Order Actiniopteris australis Today
Bring home this elegant miniature fern and create a lush, easy-care green accent. Shop now!
Actiniopteris australis
€6.50Price
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Actiniopteris australis approx 10 cm tall and comes in a ⌀ 5.5 cm pot
