Doryopteris cordata (Antler Fern)

Botanical & Common Names
- Botanical name: Doryopteris cordata
- Common names: Antler Fern

Background & Origin
Doryopteris cordata, commonly known as the Antenna or Antler Fern, is native to tropical regions of eastern Asia. This unusual fern features low, green, leathery, lobed leaves, while its distinctive tall fertile fronds rise about 15 cm above the plant on thin stems, giving it a striking, sculptural appearance. Its unique structure and tropical origin make it an excellent and decorative addition to terrariums or indoor plant displays.

Care Level
- Care level: Moderate
- Suitable for beginners: If inside a terrarium

What It Loves
- Bright indirect sunlight
- Keeping the compost moist
- A consistent watering routine
- High humidity

What It Dislikes
- Overwatering or sitting in soggy soil
- Cold draughts or sudden temperature changes
- Prolonged direct sunlight, which can scorch leaves

Best Rooms for This Plant
- Bathroom
- Kitchens

Growth Potential
- Typical height indoors: Up 5-10 cm tall with time
- Typical spread: Up to 20 - 30cm spread
- Growth rate: Slow growing compact ideal for terrariums
- Pruning required: Occasional, to manage size or old foliage

Is This Plant Right for You?
This plant is a great choice if you:
- If you love delicate, textured greenery
- Have semi shade to bright but indirect natural light
- Stand out plant in a terrarium

Light
- Best light: Semi shade to bright, indirect sunlight
- Avoid: Strong, direct sunlight

Watering
- Frequency: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, using room temperature water.
- Seasonal note: Reduce watering in winter when growth slows. Always allow excess water to drain away to prevent root rot.

Once planted in a terrarium you should not need to water again.

Humidity
- Prefers: medium to high humidity
- Extra humidity helpful?: Yes, misting or placing near other plants can support healthy leaf growth.

Feeding
- Feed with: A balanced houseplant fertiliser
- Frequency: Once a month during spring and summer. No feeding is needed during autumn and winter.

Toxicity
- Pet safe: Yes
- Notes: Keep out of reach of pets and small children to avoid damage to leaves.

Repotting
- How often: Once a year
- Signs it’s needed: Roots growing out of the drainage holes, slower growth, or soil drying very quickly. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one to avoid overwatering.