Microsorum

( my - kro - SOH - rum )

At-A-Glance Information

This genus of tropical ferns is often misspelled 'Microsorium' or 'Microsoreum'. These plants, commonly called Crocodile Ferns, grow from rhizomes instead of roots, and some are lithophytic. ​

Colocasia Species and Varietals

The genus Microsorum includes 43 species, and is a member of the plant family Polypodiaceae. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.

​Microsorum grossum (Serpent Fern, Wart Fern)
This species of fern is native to tropical areas in Oceania and Australia. These ferns are commonly found in disturbed areas, mangroves, and other upland habitats. Green leaves usually have more than five lobes and have a sweet smell to them when fresh.

Microsorum punctatum (Fishtail Fern)
Used in traditional medicine, this species of fern grows epiphytically as well as terrestrially and is native to Singapore. Underground rhizome is small, and spores are small and reddish. Popularly grown varieties include 'Grandiceps' and 'Green Flame'.

Microsorum scolopendria (Monarch Fern, Musk Fern, Maile-Scented Fern, Breadfruit Fern, Wart Fern, Laua'e)
This tropical fern is native to the Western Pacific Rim and South Pacific. Introduced to Hawai'i in the late 1910's, it has naturalized itself on the islands. When leaves are crushed, they emit a scent reminiscent of a native Hawaiian flowering vine, Maile. 

Caring for Microsorum

Propagation

Problems and Pests

Colocasia plants are susceptible to the following issues and pests:​
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For more information on these problems, including how to correct them, see the following links.
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Gallery
A field of thea sinensis
Camellia hiemalis 'Shishi Gashira'

Videos

Learn about these interesting houseplants.
An educational video about Cast-Iron Plant.

Resources

The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Page 
If you have any questions, comments, concerns, or photos you’d like to add to the gallery, please let me know by sending me a message using the button below!
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