Pronephrium simplex (synonym Thelypteris simplex)

Pronephrium simplex (synonym Thelypteris simplex), commonly known as the Simple Pronephrium, is an elegant fern in the Thelypteridaceae family.

Features:

• Size & Form: Growing about 30–40 cm tall, this fern features long‑creeping rhizomes covered with sparse, dark brown lance-shaped scales and hooked hairs at the tips.

• Leaf Shape: It produces simple, unlobed fronds that cluster into dense mats, giving it a tidy, ground-covering appearance in shaded spots.

• Genus Background: Pronephrium belongs to the thelypteroid ferns (subfamily Thelypteridoideae) and was once grouped under Thelypteris. A recent phylogenetic study led to taxonomic refinements within the genus.

Distribution & Habitat:

• Native to tropical and subtropical East and Southeast Asia.

• Found across South China, Taiwan, Vietnam, Japan, and Macau, typically along forest streams and humid valley forests.

Care Tips:

• Light: Prefers shaded to partially shaded environments, similar to its native forest understory.

• Moisture & Soil: Thrives in consistently moist, well-drained, organic-rich soils. Keeping the soil damp—but not waterlogged—is important to prevent root issues.

• Growth Habit: Forms clumping mats of foliage, making it a good choice for terrariums, shade gardens, or humid indoor plantings.

• Propagation: Propagates via spores and can also be divided during the growing season.