Actiniopteris radiata

Actiniopteris radiata is widely distributed across Africa (including Madagascar), the Arabian Peninsula, Iran, Afghanistan, India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and parts of Australia. It thrives in hot, dry, or semi-arid environments, typically growing at the base of rocks, in crevices, or shallow soil patches, and can also be found in deciduous woodlands that receive seasonal moisture. This adaptable fern occurs at altitudes ranging from about 200 to 1800 meters depending on the region.

Features:

• From a creeping / short, prostrate rhizome, producing fan-shaped (flabellate) fronds.

• Fronds are somewhat dimorphic: fertile ones are often slightly longer/narrower than sterile ones.

• Frond segments are dichotomously divided, narrow linear lobes; tips often with 2-5 small teeth. Fan spread sometimes up to ~180°.

• Rhizome and stipe (frond stalk) are scaly; the scales are linear-lanceolate, with a darker central stripe and paler margin.

Care Tips:

• Light: Prefers bright, filtered light or partial shade. Avoid intense direct sun, especially midday.

• Soil / Substrate: Very well-draining soil is important. Rocky or gritty substrate helps; shallow pockets of soil over rock are natural.

• Water & Humidity: Tolerates dry periods; seasonal moisture. Allow substrate to dry somewhat between waterings but don’t let it remain completely dry long term. Higher humidity helps, especially if indoors.

• Temperature: Warm conditions. Because it naturally inhabits dry, hot climates, it’s more tolerant of heat than many ferns, but likely doesn’t like frost or cold drafts.