Pellaea falcata aka Sickle Fern

Pellaea falcata is an easy-care fern suitable for beginners. It is described as low maintenance and is notably disease-resistant and insect-resistant, making it forgiving of minor care mistakes. The plant tolerates a range of light levels from dappled sun to deep shade and adapts to various soil and moisture conditions. It has received the RHS Award of Garden Merit, recognizing its reliable garden performance.

Pellaea falcata prefers humid conditions typical of its native tropical and subtropical environments. Regular misting helps maintain adequate humidity levels, especially when grown indoors where air tends to be drier. While the plant tolerates average household humidity, it will thrive with increased humidity through misting, a pebble tray, or placement in naturally humid rooms like bathrooms or kitchens.

Pellaea falcata can be propagated through two methods: rhizome division and spore collection. Division is the simpler approach—carefully separate sections of the rhizome, ensuring each division has adequate roots and fronds. Plant divisions in well-draining soil and keep consistently moist in indirect light. For spore propagation, the plant is reported to be very fast-growing from fresh spores, though this method requires more patience and controlled conditions.

Pellaea falcata is a small to medium-sized fern that typically grows 30-75 cm tall with a spread of 40-60 cm, forming attractive tufted clumps. The glossy, dark green fronds arch gracefully and can reach up to 105 cm in ideal conditions. It has a moderate growth rate and spreads gradually via creeping rhizomes. RHS estimates it takes 5-10 years to reach ultimate size, making it a manageable houseplant that won't quickly outgrow its space.

Pellaea falcata is native to a wide area spanning eastern Australia, New Zealand, Southeast Asia, and India. In Australia, it grows throughout Tasmania, Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland, and Lord Howe Island, commonly found in eucalyptus forests and rainforests. In New Zealand, it is indigenous but naturally uncommon, primarily found in the North Island on coastal cliffs and rocky outcrops. The species also occurs in New Caledonia, Norfolk Island, Malaya, and Sulawesi.

Pellaea falcata can be grown outdoors in USDA zones 9-11 where winters are mild. It is frost-tender and prefers sheltered positions in partial to full shade. The plant is ideal for rockeries, as groundcover under trees, on banks, and in containers on patios. RHS rates it as H4 hardy (surviving -10 to -5°C) and notes it tolerates both exposed and sheltered positions. In cooler climates, grow it as a houseplant or bring containers indoors during winter.

Pellaea falcata prefers mild temperatures consistent with its native tropical and subtropical habitats. It is frost-tender and should be protected from freezing temperatures. RHS indicates it can survive temperatures down to -5°C to -10°C briefly, but prolonged cold will damage the plant. For indoor growing, average room temperatures of 15-24°C (60-75°F) are ideal. Avoid placing near cold drafts or heating vents.

Pellaea falcata requires minimal pruning. Simply remove dead, damaged, or yellowing fronds as needed to maintain an attractive appearance and encourage new growth. Cut fronds at the base near the rhizome using clean, sharp scissors or secateurs. This low-maintenance fern doesn't require shaping or regular trimming beyond basic cleanup of old foliage.

Repot Pellaea falcata when it doubles in size or approximately once per year, whichever comes first. This helps replenish nutrients in the soil. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one, as ferns generally prefer being somewhat root-bound. Use well-draining, organic-rich potting mix. Spring is the best time for repotting, allowing the plant to recover during the active growing season.

Yellow leaves on Pellaea falcata typically indicate watering issues. Overwatering and root rot are the most common problems, as this fern is sensitive to waterlogged soil. Ensure the pot has good drainage and allow the top of the soil to slightly dry between waterings. Insufficient light can also cause yellowing—while this fern tolerates low light, it needs at least some indirect light to thrive. Natural yellowing of older fronds is normal as the plant produces new growth.

Brown leaf tips on Pellaea falcata usually indicate low humidity or too much direct sunlight. This fern prefers humid conditions and indirect light—exposure to direct sun can burn the delicate fronds. Increase humidity by misting regularly or using a pebble tray. Move the plant away from direct sunlight to a spot with bright, indirect or dappled light. Brown tips can also result from underwatering or from chemicals in tap water; consider using filtered or rainwater.

Drooping fronds on Pellaea falcata are typically a sign of water stress. NC State Extension notes that leaves may appear 'curling or drooping' due to overwatering and root rot. Check that the soil is moist but not waterlogged and that the pot drains well. Underwatering can also cause wilting, so if the soil is very dry, give the plant a thorough watering. Extremely low humidity or recent stress from repotting or relocation can also cause temporary drooping.

Pellaea falcata is notably disease-resistant and insect-resistant, making it a trouble-free houseplant. NC State Extension describes it as 'generally disease- and insect-resistant' while RHS lists it as 'pest-free and disease-free.' However, it's wise to occasionally monitor for scale insects, aphids, and potential fungal infections, particularly in conditions with poor air circulation or excess moisture. Good cultural practices—proper watering, adequate drainage, and air circulation—are the best prevention.

Beyond being grown as an ornamental houseplant or garden specimen, Pellaea falcata fronds can be used in floral arrangements, adding elegant greenery with their distinctive glossy, sickle-shaped leaflets. In the landscape, it makes an attractive groundcover under trees, works well in rockeries and on banks, and is suitable for container growing on patios. Its tufted, arching habit also makes it lovely grown over rocks.

As an evergreen fern, Pellaea falcata maintains its foliage year-round but grows more slowly in winter. Reduce watering frequency during the cooler months as the plant uses less moisture, but don't allow the soil to dry out completely. Hold off on fertilizing from autumn through winter, resuming in spring when growth picks up. If growing outdoors in borderline climates, provide frost protection or bring containers indoors when temperatures approach freezing.

Sickle Fern should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Sickle Fern loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

To ensure optimal growth, the Sickle Fern prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

The Sickle Fern should be repotted when it has doubled in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing fresh potting soil with all the essential nutrients each year ensures the plant's well-being, eliminating the need for fertilizer. Remember, plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.

Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.