Fern ‘Crocodyllus’: The Reptile Fern That Looks Like It Has Scales

Meet Microsorum musifolium ‘Crocodyllus,’ the fern that might just make your reptile feel like it has a leafy cousin. With its striking crocodile-scale pattern etched across each leathery green frond, this plant is as much a conversation piece as it is a humidity-loving greenery machine. It’s the perfect blend of botanical beauty and reptile-themed décor — without any of the snapping jaws.

In terrariums and reptile enclosures, ‘Crocodyllus’ thrives like it’s back in the tropics, lapping up warm, humid air and dappled light. The fronds arch and weave, offering shelter, visual cover, and that all-important “I live in the jungle” aesthetic for your scaly companions.

Care Tips:

• Light: Bright, indirect light is ideal. Avoid harsh midday sun, which can scorch and fade the leaf patterns. In low-light rooms, supplement with a grow light.

• Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. Let the top 1–2 cm of soil dry before watering again. In terrariums, water lightly to avoid excessive condensation.

• Humidity: Loves humidity above 60%, but 70–80% is even better. A closed terrarium, reptile enclosure, or regular misting will keep it happy.

• Temperature: Thrives between 18 °C and 27 °C. Avoid sudden temperature drops or placing it near cold drafts.

• Soil/Substrate: Use a loose, rich, well-draining mix with organic matter. In bioactive reptile enclosures, plant it in an area protected from heavy digging.

• Feeding: Feed once a month during spring and summer with a diluted balanced fertilizer. Skip feeding in autumn and winter when growth slows.

• Pruning: Remove old or damaged fronds to keep the plant tidy and encourage fresh growth.

• Pests: Generally resistant, but keep an eye out for scale or mealybugs in drier environments.

• Propagation: Best divided during repotting by gently separating the rhizome.

Bonus points — Microsorum ferns are generally pet-safe, so if your reptile decides to test the menu, it won’t cause harm (though your plant might object).

‘Crocodyllus’ is the kind of plant that blends seamlessly into a tropical habitat while still turning heads — whether they belong to humans or reptiles. Think of it as functional décor: shelter for your pets, style for your setup, and just enough personality to make you grin every time you see it.