Asian Walking Fern (Asplenium ruprechtii)

Asplenium ruprechtii, commonly known as the “Asian Walking Fern,” is a species in the fern family Aspleniaceae. Its name comes from the unique way its leaf tips can root and produce new plantlets when they touch the ground, giving the impression that the plant is “walking” across its substrate. This fern is native to shady limestone ledges and forested slopes in East Asia, where it thrives in calcareous soils or substrates.

Care Tips:

• Light: Prefers shade to partial shade. Filtered, indirect light is best; avoid intense direct sun which can scorch the fronds.

• Temperature: Extremely cold-hardy. This fern has been observed staying green even at –20 °C in winter, and it is recommended for climates with annual temperature ranges between –40 °C and +33 °C.

• Soil / Medium: Use well-draining, humus-rich substrate. If using soil pots, include material that retains moisture but avoids waterlogging. Limestone or calcareous content helps replicate its native habitat.

• Watering: Keep the soil/substrate consistently moist, but not soggy. Avoid allowing it to dry out completely. Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root issues.

• Humidity: Appreciates higher humidity; keeps fronds healthy and helps prevent dryness or browning at leaf tips.

• Propagation: Propagates naturally when leaf tips touch the ground and form new plantlets (“walking”). Can also be grown from spores under suitable conditions.