Godzilla Fern
Nephrolepis exaltata 'Godzilla'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Fern
Height
24 inches
Width
36 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Water
Consistently moist soil
Humidity
High humidity preferred
Lifespan
Indefinite indoors with proper care
Native To
Tropical regions worldwide
Toxicity
Non-toxic to pets and humans
The Story
Plant Bio
Nephrolepis exaltata, the sword fern, is an evergreen fern often grown as a houseplant. It forms a lush clump of arching, pinnate, sword-shaped fronds and is native to tropical regions worldwide. This cultivar is distinguished by its heavily ruffled, crinkled, and twisted fronds, giving it a unique, textured, and somewhat chaotic appearance reminiscent of its namesake.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck spores or divisions into moist, well-draining soil in early spring.
- Mist regularly to maintain humidity around 60-80%.
- Place in bright, indirect light for optimal growth.
- Water consistently to keep soil evenly moist, avoiding waterlogging.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season.
- Transplant when roots outgrow current container, typically every 1-2 years.
Pro Tip
Maintain high humidity and indirect light for lush, healthy fronds.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy 🌱
- Provide bright, indirect light
- Fertilize monthly during active growing season
- Maintain high humidity levels
Don't
- Avoid direct sunlight which can scorch fronds ❌
- Do not let soil dry out completely
- Refrain from over-fertilizing to prevent leaf burn
- Avoid placing in drafty or dry environments
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Propagate | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Godzilla Fern questions
What zones can Godzilla Fern grow in?
Godzilla Fern is hardy in USDA Zone 10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Godzilla Fern deer resistant?
Yes — Godzilla Fern is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
Does Godzilla Fern need full sun?
Godzilla Fern does best in part shade.
More Nephrolepis to compare
Brilliance Autumn Fern
Nephrolepis exaltata 'Brilliance Autumn'
Boston Fern
Nephrolepis exaltata
Lady in Red Fern
Nephrolepis exaltata 'Lady in Red'
Kimberly Queen Fern
Nephrolepis obliterata 'Kimberly Queen'
Golden Boston Fern
Nephrolepis exaltata 'Jurassic Gold'
Macho Fern
Nephrolepis biserrata 'Macho'
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Grow Godzilla Fern with confidence
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