Tectaria gemmifera (Snail Fern)

Tectaria gemmifera originates from tropical Africa and Madagascar and is widespread wherever it finds shady, moist habitats. Its doubly pinnate fronds grow up to 70 cm long.

This fern has a truly curious method of reproduction. On the midribs of larger fronds, so-called "gemmae" form. These are offshoots, genetically identical to the mother plant, which initially look like small brown balls . When they produce their first independent fronds (still attached to the mother plant!), they resemble tiny snails extending their feelers. This is how it got its common name, "snail fern." The gemmae are either flung away by rain when they are large enough, or they sink to the ground with the frond of the mother plant when it dies.

It grows quite slowly and is well suited for larger terrariums or conservatories.

You will receive a young plant in a 7cm pot.