Golden Zebra Fern

Golden Zebra Fern

Posted by Hannah Brand on Apr 20th 2025

Weekly Plant Chat: Golden Zebra Fern

Hey Plant Friends!

This week we are talking about Coniogramme emeiensis, more commonly known as the Golden Zebra Fern. This stunning fern is known for its striking light and dark green striped foliage. The Zebra fern is a bit hardier than others as it has thicker leaves compared to other ferns making it easier to care for indoors.


Family of Origin

The Golden Zebra Fern belongs to the Pteridaceae plant family is native to the Mt. Omei region of Sichuan Province in China. Specifically, it's known for being found in the moist woodlands of that area.


Plant Care

Light

Indoors, place in bright, indirect to medium light. If you plan to put this plant outside for the summer avoid direct sunlight as this can cause leaf scortch. Ferns appreciate a nice shady spot and love the summer humidity.

Soil

Ferns require a soil that can hold on to a bit of moisture, we recommend using Fox Farms Coco Loco, a coconut coir-based mix. Ingredients include 50-60% coconut coir, aged forest products, perlite, earthworm castings, bat guano, kelp, oyster shells, dolomitic lime, and mycorrhizae. This soil holds moisture 2 to 3 times longer than peat moss blends as the coir acts like little sponges releasing water when needed. It also allows for better root aeration.

Water

Check weekly for watering; keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Allow the top half inch of soil to dry before giving a good soak. Ferns may not recover from drought and may become brown and crispy if allowed to become too dry.

Fertilizer

Fertilize weekly during periods of active growth with an all-purpose fertilizer such as Schultz All Purpose Liquid Plant Food. As growth slows in the winter months, fertilization may not be needed.

Hot Tips

Ferns require evenly moist soil and extra humidity. Grow in a naturally more humid space such as a bathroom or near the kitchen sink. Place away from drafty windows.

Keep an eye out for common pests such as mealy bugs and spider mites. Check for pests weekly while watering and keep a bottle of Bonide’s Insecticidal Soap on hand for easy treatment.

The Golden Zebra Fern are pet friendly and non-toxic to our furry friends.


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Golden Zebra Fern are available in 4” pots in the greenhouse.




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