Parahemionitis arifolia is a species of ferns in the subfamily Cheilanthoideae and the family Pteridaceae; it was placed previously in a monotypic genus Mickelopteris with the species M. cordata. Other synonyms include Parahemionitis cordata and various species names in the now much reduced genus Hemionitis. This species is native to South and south-eastern Asia, from India to Taiwan and the Philippines.
Heart fern typically has good resistance to disease and relatively few insect pests. Its care is considered difficult, since it requires a moist environment and frequent watering. However, the roots are prone to rot if it is overwatered or the environment lacks adequate ventilation. Heart fern is suitable for people with some growing experience, as most individuals can keep it alive for a certain period. Still, the plant may have trouble thriving and its leaves can dry out and become less healthy over time.
How to keep Hemionitis Cordata.
Light
Heart fern thrives with plenty of sunlight. Too little light can stunt its growth, while too much can scorch the leaves. It adapts well to shaded spots and tolerates low-light conditions. This mirrors its native habitat, which featured a wide variety of light levels.
Temperature
The heart fern comes from temperate regions and grows best at temperatures between 68 and 100°F (20 to 38℃). To keep it healthy through seasonal changes, you should adjust the temperature within that range.
Pot & Repot
When repotting a Heart fern, select a pot 1–2 inches (2.5–5.1 cm) larger with ample drainage. Use a well-draining potting mix. Repot in spring or fall, making sure the root ball sits slightly below the rim of the flower pot. Water thoroughly after repotting and place it in a warm spot with indirect sunlight.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Fern
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Hemionitis
- Family
- Pteridaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 10-11
- Mature Height
- 15 cm to 30 cm
- Mature Spread
- 30 cm to 46 cm
- Leaf Color
- Forest Green, Dark Green
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Native Area
- Sri Lanka, India, Malaysia, Indonesia, Cambodia, Vietnam, Myanmar, Philippines, Bangladesh, Laos, Thailand, China
