Polypodium Vulgare Fern
Polypodium vulgare Common Polypody Fern
The Polypodium vulgare, or Common Polypody, is a classic native fern with soft, leathery fronds and a gently arching habit. Naturally found growing on woodland floors and rocky slopes, it brings a timeless, wild charm to indoor spaces, terrariums, and vivariums.
This plant is:
✔️ Easy to Care For
✔️ Non Toxic to Pets
✔️ Slow to Moderate Growing
✔️ Air Purifying
✔️ Suitable for Terrariums and Vivariums
✔️ Great for Gifting
Polypodium vulgare prefers dappled light and consistent moisture. It is perfect for natural-style terrarium layouts, mossy vivarium backdrops, or shady windowsills. Its thick, creeping rhizomes allow it to gently spread while staying tidy and compact. With proper humidity and light, this hardy fern adapts well to indoor life and requires minimal effort to maintain.
Each plant is selected from our current healthy stock. Leaf shape and growth habit may vary slightly as each plant develops its own natural form.
Plants are shipped in nursery pots using recyclable and reused packaging materials and include a scannable QR code for full care guidance.
🪴 Quick Care Guide
☀️ Light: Low to medium indirect light
💧 Watering: Keep the soil lightly moist, avoid letting it dry out completely
💧 Humidity: Average to high humidity recommended
💦 Extra Tip: Use our Highland Moss premium potting mix to help retain gentle moisture while providing airflow to the roots
- How should I water my Polypodium Vulgare Fern to maintain its health?
- Keep the soil lightly moist by watering it when the top centimetre feels dry to the touch. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely to ensure the fern thrives.
- Can this fern be placed in a terrarium, and if so, what are the best conditions?
- Yes, it’s ideal for terrariums due to its preference for high humidity and dappled light. Ensure the terrarium is well-ventilated and avoid direct sunlight to mimic its natural woodland habitat.
- Is the Polypodium Vulgare Fern suitable for beginners?
- Absolutely, this fern is easy to care for and adapts well to indoor environments, making it perfect for beginners looking for a low-maintenance houseplant.
☀️ Light
☀️☀️▫️ (Medium)
The Polypodium Vulgare Fern thrives in low to medium indirect light. It’s perfectly happy in a spot with dappled sunlight, mimicking its natural woodland habitat. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent scorching its delicate fronds.
💧 Water
💧💧▫️ (Medium)
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water the fern when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. This fern appreciates a steady amount of water to mimic the moist environment of its native setting.
💧️ Temperature
🌡️️🌡️️▫️ (Average)
This fern prefers typical indoor temperatures, ideally between 16°C to 24°C (60°F to 75°F). It can tolerate a range of indoor temperatures but avoid placing it near drafts or heat sources.
💦 Humidity
💦💦▫️ (Moderate)
Polypodium Vulgare enjoys a moderate to high humidity level. If your home is particularly dry, consider using a humidifier or placing the plant in a naturally humid area like a kitchen or bathroom.
💦 Repotting
This fern grows at a slow to moderate rate and generally requires repotting every 2-3 years. Use a well-draining potting mix, ideally one that retains moisture while allowing excess water to escape, such as our Highland Moss premium potting mix.
🐾 Pet Friendliness
This plant is non-toxic and safe for pets. It’s a great choice for pet owners who want to bring a bit of nature indoors without worrying about the health of their furry friends.
🪴 Recommended Locations at Home
Ideal locations include shaded windowsills, bathrooms, or any spot that receives indirect sunlight. Its lush appearance makes it a perfect addition to living rooms or offices where its air-purifying qualities can be fully appreciated.
🌬️🪴 Air Purifying
Yes, the Polypodium Vulgare Fern is known for its air-purifying abilities. It helps remove common household toxins from the air, making it not only a beautiful but also a beneficial addition to your home or office.
✨ Other Plant Features
Alongside its pet-friendly and air purifying qualities, this fern is also highly suitable for terrariums and vivariums due to its compact growth and adaptability to varying humidity levels.
If you have any more questions about caring for your Polypodium Vulgare Fern, feel free to ask Mossbot on our website, or contact us directly. Remember, we also offer a free plant hospital service if your fern needs extra care!

Free Care Guide With Every Purchase
Scan the plant pot QR for instant access to our care guide for your plant. No hassle, no stress, just healthy and happy plants.
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