Leatherleaf Fern (Scleroglossum pusillum)

Scleroglossum pusillum, also known as the Leatherleaf Fern, is a small epiphytic fern belonging to the Polypodiaceae family. It is widely distributed across Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands, including southern China (Yunnan, Hainan), Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, the Solomon Islands, Borneo, Java, and the Maldives. This fern thrives in moist, moss-covered tree trunks in tropical evergreen or deciduous forests, especially in mid to high-altitude regions.

Plant Characteristics:

• Leaves: Leather-like, linear-lanceolate, 1.8–8 cm long and 1–4 mm wide.

• Leaf Stipe: Lacks a prominent stipe, with a winged base covered in sparse stellate hairs.

• Sori: Located along the leaf margins, arranged in a linear pattern.

• Rhizomes: Short, ascending, covered in brown scales that taper towards the top.

Care Tips:

• Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight as it can damage the delicate fronds.

• Soil: Grows well in moist, well-draining substrates, such as moss-covered surfaces or tree trunks.

• Temperature: Ideal for tropical and subtropical conditions. Prefers temperatures between 20°C and 28°C.

• Humidity: Requires high humidity, making it perfect for greenhouse or humid indoor environments such as bathrooms or terrariums.