Halberd fern (single plant clump)

The Halberd Fern (Tectaria heracleifolia) is a striking tropical fern valued for its large, halberd-shaped fronds and lush, architectural foliage. It’s often grown as an ornamental plant indoors or in shaded gardens.

🌿 Plant Overview

• Common Name: Halberd Fern

• Botanical Name: Tectaria heracleifolia

• Family: Tectariaceae

• Type: Evergreen perennial fern

• Native Range: Tropical America (Mexico to South America)

🌱 Appearance

• Fronds: Large, glossy green, deeply lobed with a shape resembling a halberd (a medieval spear/axe).

• Size: Can grow 2–4 ft tall with an equal spread.

• Texture: Coarse, bold foliage, giving a tropical, dramatic look.

• Growth Habit: Upright clumping fern with rhizomes.

🌞 Growing Conditions

• Light: Prefers bright, indirect light or partial shade. Direct harsh sun can scorch leaves.

• Soil: Rich, well-draining, humus-rich soil. Slightly acidic to neutral.

• Watering: Keep soil evenly moist, but not soggy. Likes high humidity.

• Temperature: Thrives in warm climates (18–30°C). Cannot tolerate frost.

• Fertilizer: Monthly diluted balanced fertilizer during the growing season (spring–summer).

✂️ Care & Maintenance

• Humidity: Mist leaves or use a humidity tray indoors.

• Pruning: Remove old or yellowing fronds to encourage new growth.

• Repotting: Every 2–3 years when clump becomes crowded.

• Pests/Diseases: Generally hardy, but may face scale, mealybugs, or fungal leaf spots in low airflow.

🌺 Landscape & Indoor Use

• Great for shady tropical gardens, fern collections, or as a bold houseplant.

• Often used in botanical gardens and tropical landscaping for its unique frond shape.

• Can be combined with Calatheas, Alocasias, and Philodendrons for a lush jungle effect.