Propagation
Place spores on sterilised sphagnum moss, peat moss, bricks or terracotta pot base then cover with glass and keep moist. 4 to 6 weeks until prothalli appears. True fronds appear between 6-12 months after sowing.
Division during the growing period, cut the rhizomes in to lengths and plant apex upwards, apply bottom heat and keep moist.
Botanic information
Leaf: The broad triangular tripinnate fronds have a black stipe and the oblong-rhombic pinnule are up to 60mm (2?in) longwith an acuminate apex and a short very slender petiole. The upper margin is serrated and the pinnules are arranged alternately along the rachis.
Flower: The fertile fronds produce oblong sori that are arranged on the underside along the lobed margins of the pinnules and covered with a recurved marginal flap. The flowering period in during early summer but may vary in tropical regions.
Fruit: This plant is normally reproduced vegetatively from rhizomes.
The spores are produced in the sporangium during the sporophyte stage of the fern life cycle in rows on the back of the fertile frond. The spores are very small (like fine dust) and are released from the sori when mature and dispersed by wind or water.
General information for ferns
Temperature
The ideal temperature required for ferns ranges from 15.5º to 22º C (60º to 70ºF); above and below these temperatures the ferns tend to suffer.
Light
Naturally a fern receive bright dappled light and for successful growth around a home bright indirect light is preferred. Ferns do poorly if grown in the shade.
Water
Ferns require constantly moist, well drained soils but not wet or waterlogged as this promotes rot. Ferns like the water to pass by the roots regularly.
Humidity
Ferns need a humid environment and do poorly in dry air. Humidity may be maintained for potted plants by regular misting of the fronds or by placing the container above a saucer filled with water. In the outdoors maintain moist soils or in hot weather outside spray the area with a garden hose for a short period regularly.