Heart Fern (4")

Heart Fern

Name (Common)
Heart Fern

Latin Name
Hemionitis arifolia (also known as Parahemionitis arifolia)*

Care Difficulty
Moderate. A beautiful tropical fern that prefers consistent moisture, warmth, and high humidity.

Light Requirements
Bright, indirect light to medium light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the delicate heart-shaped leaves. It performs well near east- or north-facing windows.

Water Requirements
Keep the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. Water when the top inch of soil begins to feel dry. Do not allow the soil to dry out completely.

Humidity
Prefers high humidity (60 to 80%). A humidifier, terrarium, or naturally humid room such as a bathroom is ideal.

Pet Safety
Pet safe. Non-toxic to cats and dogs.

Growth Speed
Slow to moderate. Produces new heart-shaped leaves steadily throughout the growing season.

Expected Mature Size

• Height: 6 to 10 inches
• Width: 8 to 12 inches

Pot Size
Repot every 2 to 3 years using a rich, well-draining potting mix that retains some moisture. Always use a pot with drainage holes.

Where it Grows Best
Indoors in temperatures between 65 and 80°F (18 to 27°C). It thrives in terrariums, bright bathrooms, kitchens, or any warm location with consistently high humidity.

Perfect for…

• Pet-friendly homes
• Terrariums
• Bathrooms
• Small spaces
• Tropical plant collections
• Anyone looking for unique foliage

Common Mistakes

• Allowing the soil to dry out completely.
• Growing in dry household air.
• Placing the plant in direct sunlight.
• Overwatering in poorly drained soil.
• Exposing it to cold drafts or temperatures below 60°F (16°C).

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Heart Fern unique?
Unlike most ferns with feathery fronds, the Heart Fern has glossy, heart-shaped leaves that grow on slender stems, giving it a delicate and elegant appearance.

Can I grow it in a terrarium?
Yes. Heart Fern is an excellent terrarium plant because it loves consistently warm, humid conditions.

Why are the leaf edges turning brown?
Brown edges are usually caused by low humidity, inconsistent watering, or allowing the soil to become too dry. Increasing humidity and maintaining even moisture will help prevent this.

How often should I fertilize it?
Feed once a month during spring and summer with a balanced water-soluble houseplant fertilizer at half strength. Do not fertilize during the winter months.

Can I grow it outdoors?
Yes. In Zone 3, it can be placed outdoors during the summer in a shaded, sheltered location. Bring it indoors before nighttime temperatures fall below 55°F (13°C).

Should I remove old leaves?
Yes. Trim away yellow, brown, or damaged leaves at the base of the stem to encourage healthy new growth and keep the plant looking tidy.

Shipping Guarantee

Every Heart Fern is carefully inspected, watered, and securely packaged before shipping. Extra care is taken to protect its delicate heart-shaped foliage so your plant arrives healthy and ready to grow.

Healthy Arrival Guarantee

We stand behind the quality of our plants. If your Heart Fern arrives with significant shipping damage or in poor condition, contact us within 24 hours of delivery with clear photos of the plant and its packaging. We will gladly work with you to provide an appropriate replacement or store credit in accordance with our Healthy Arrival Guarantee policy.