Blechnum gibbum ‘Silver Lady’ Fern

Overview

Blechnum gibbum, commonly called Silver Lady Fern, is a striking tropical fern prized for its large, arching fronds with silvery-grey new growth. It is a slow-growing, clumping fern that adds texture and elegance to indoor spaces, shaded gardens, and terrariums. The silver-toned fronds make it stand out among other ferns.

Appearance

• Fronds emerge silver-grey and mature to rich green.

• Each frond is long, narrow, and arching, creating a soft, fountain-like structure.

• The plant grows in a neat, upright clump, usually 60 to 90 cm tall indoors with enough space.

• Its striking silver new growth makes it a focal point in indoor displays and tropical plant collections.

Reptile Safety

Blechnum gibbum ‘Silver Lady’ is non-toxic and safe to keep around reptiles, including species that may brush past or explore plants. It is suitable for reptiles that do not intentionally eat leaves. Accidental contact or incidental nibbling is not harmful.

Indoor Use

• Thrives in bright, indirect light.

• Can tolerate medium light but grows slower.

• Perfect for decorative pots, plant stands, or as part of fern and tropical plant groupings.

• Enjoys humid areas such as bathrooms or kitchens.

Outdoor Use

• Grows well in shade or dappled sunlight.

• Can be used on patios, under trees, or in sheltered garden areas.

• Must be protected from direct midday sun and frost.

• In warm, humid climates, it can thrive outdoors year-round.

Terrarium Use (Plant-Only Terrariums)

• Suitable for large, open plant-only terrariums with good airflow.

• Prefers high humidity but needs ventilation to prevent rot.

• Adds structure and height to tropical terrarium layouts.

• Avoid small, sealed terrariums as stagnant moisture can damage fronds.

Light Requirements

• Bright, indirect light is ideal.

• Too much direct sun can scorch leaves.

• Low light reduces the intensity of new silvery fronds.

Watering

• Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.

• Water when the top 2–3 cm of soil starts to feel dry.

• Avoid letting water sit on the crown of the plant, which can cause rot.

Humidity

• High humidity is ideal (50–80%).

• Helps maintain soft, full fronds and silver colouration.

• Works well in humid rooms or terrarium-style setups.

Temperature

• Ideal range: 18 to 28°C.

• Avoid cold drafts or sudden temperature changes.

When to Repot

• Repot when the plant becomes root-bound or the clump grows crowded.

• Best done in spring.

• Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current size to prevent waterlogging.

Soil to Use

• Light, airy, moisture-retentive mix:

  • potting soil

  • cocopeat or peat

  • perlite

  • optional fine bark

• Ensures good drainage while holding enough moisture for fronds.

Troubleshooting

Brown tips

• Cause: low humidity or underwatering

• Fix: increase humidity, water consistently

Yellowing fronds

• Cause: overwatering or poor drainage

• Fix: allow soil to dry slightly, ensure drainage

Slow or weak growth

• Cause: low light or cold temperatures

• Fix: move to brighter, warm location

Soft, mushy base

• Cause: rot from standing water

• Fix: water less, improve drainage, remove damaged fronds

Faded silver colour

• Cause: insufficient light

• Fix: increase indirect light exposure