Cyrtomium fortunei clivicolum

Description

Cyrtomium fortunei subsp. clivicolum is a hardy and elegant tropical fern appreciated for its glossy, deeply divided fronds resembling holly leaves. Ideal for humid terrariums, paludariums, and shaded indoor environments, it brings a structured and exotic foliage effect to plant compositions.

Botanical family

Dryopteridaceae

Genus

Cyrtomium

Species / Cultivar

Cyrtomium fortunei subsp. clivicolum

Origin

Native to East Asia, this fern naturally grows in shaded forest understories and rocky, humid slopes where conditions remain cool, moist, and protected from direct sunlight.

Foliage

The foliage is glossy, dark green, and leathery, with distinctly serrated leaflets reminiscent of holly. Its strong architectural appearance makes it highly decorative in tropical plant arrangements.

Growth habit

This fern has a compact and upright growth habit with a slow to moderate development, making it well suited for controlled terrarium environments and shaded indoor setups.

Cultivation

Cyrtomium fortunei subsp. clivicolum thrives in indirect to shaded light, high humidity, and a rich but well-draining substrate kept slightly moist. It tolerates cooler conditions better than many tropical ferns.

Terrarium compatibility

• Tropical humid terrarium: Yes
• Paludarium: Yes
• Tropical vivarium: Yes
• Nano terrarium: Yes
• Indoor cultivation: Yes

Its resilience and tolerance to shade make it a reliable species for structured tropical environments.

Recommended substrate

A rich, airy substrate composed of coconut fiber, leaf litter, sphagnum moss, and fine bark ensures stable moisture while maintaining good drainage.

Watering

Keep the substrate evenly slightly moist. Avoid both complete drying and waterlogging.

Humidity

Prefers humidity levels between 60% and 85%, especially in terrarium or shaded indoor conditions.

Temperature

Ideal temperature range: 12°C to 24°C. More tolerant of cooler conditions than most tropical ferns.

Growth rate

Slow to moderate growth depending on conditions, forming a stable and long-lasting structure.

Current size

Plant sold in pot. Size may vary depending on season and availability.

Maintenance

Remove old or damaged fronds to maintain appearance and ensure good airflow in humid environments.

Why choose Cyrtomium fortunei subsp. clivicolum?

This fern is ideal for adding structure and texture to tropical compositions, with excellent resilience and a distinctive holly-like foliage.

Additional information

• Botanical name: Cyrtomium fortunei subsp. clivicolum
• Family: Dryopteridaceae
• Origin: East Asia
• Type: Hardy tropical fern
• Light: Shade to indirect light
• Watering: Regular
• Humidity: Moderate to high
• Difficulty: Easy
• Growth: Slow to moderate
• Terrarium compatible: Yes
• Paludarium compatible: Yes