Doryopteris pedata, commonly known as the Digit Fern, is an unusual tropical fern with distinctive, finger-like fronds held on slender dark stems. Its delicate, architectural foliage gives it a wonderfully unusual appearance, making it a great choice for fern lovers, terrariums and humid indoor plant collections.
Scientific Name
Doryopteris pedata
Common Name(s)
Digit Fern, Finger Fern
Origin
Native to tropical regions of the Americas and the Caribbean, where it grows in warm, humid environments.
Light
Prefers bright, indirect light or gentle filtered light. Avoid strong direct sunlight, which can scorch the delicate fronds. It can tolerate slightly lower light levels, although growth may be slower.
Water
Keep the soil consistently lightly moist, allowing the very top to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid allowing the plant to completely dry out, as this can quickly cause the delicate fronds to crisp. Do not allow it to sit in water.
Humidity
Prefers high humidity and is particularly well suited to humid bathrooms, plant cabinets and larger terrariums. Keep away from radiators and other sources of hot, dry air.
Soil
Use a rich, well-draining soil mix that retains some moisture. A good-quality houseplant compost with added perlite and fine bark works well.
Food
Feed every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with a balanced liquid houseplant fertiliser diluted to half strength. Reduce feeding during autumn and winter when growth slows.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures between 18–25°C. Protect from cold draughts and sudden temperature changes, and avoid prolonged temperatures below 15°C.
Pet-safe
There is limited reliable information specifically regarding the toxicity of Doryopteris pedata, so we recommend keeping it out of reach of pets and children as a precaution.
Sprouts Top Tips
Consistent moisture and humidity are the key to keeping your Digit Fern looking its best. If the tips of the fronds start becoming brown and crispy, check that the soil isn’t drying out too much and move it away from radiators or other sources of dry air.
Extras
The unusual fronds become increasingly divided as they mature, creating the finger-like appearance that gives the Digit Fern its common name. Its compact size and love of humidity also make it an interesting choice for tropical displays.
Did You Know?
The name pedata refers to the distinctive shape of the mature fronds, which divide into sections resembling fingers spreading from a hand.
