Tarantula Fern

Epiphytes

• Epiphytic plants, such as tarantula ferns, grow on other plants. They use host plants for support and obtain water and nutrients from sources such as rain, composted plant debris and trapped insects. Tarantula ferns are native to Fiji where they grow on branches and tree trunks in tropical forests. Houseplant culture must imitate their natural habitat as closely as possible for them to thrive. Customizing containers, potting mix, light, water and fertilizer to tarantula fern’s specific needs ensures plant vigor.

Growing in Containers

• Since the most distinguishing feature of tarantula fern is its rhizome, choosing containers to display this feature enhances its unique look. Growing tarantula fern in slatted orchid baskets allows its rhizomes to grow through openings between slats for a full display of fuzzy spider legs at plant maturity. In hanging baskets, rhizomes peek over basket rims and appear to crawl down basket sides as plants mature. Tabletop flowerpots in offices often solicit second glances from co-workers.

Potting Mix

• Growing epiphytic ferns in a soilless environment requires bark-based potting mixes. Commercially packaged orchid blends are good choices. Bob Anderson, floriculture specialist with the University of Kentucky, recommends components such as shredded pine or fir bark, sphagnum moss, osmunda fiber and Styrofoam beads. These items mimic the natural arboreal growing environment for ferns and allow excellent drainage. Ferns enjoy moist conditions, but roots will rot if kept in soggy soil and plants will not survive.

Light, Water, Fertilizer

• In tropical habitats, tarantula fern grows in filtered light under tree canopies. Direct sun burns fronds and stresses plants but bright light or diffused sunlight contributes to optimal growth. Thoroughly soak ferns when watering but don’t water again until they’ve remained dry for several days. Recommended fertilizer strength is one-half the recommended rate for other houseplants because full-strength applications can burn ferns. Only fertilize once monthly during the active growing season, from March through October, and withhold fertilization during cooler months.