Complete guide to antenna fern care
This tiny fern may be small, but its feathery fronds will bring a big smile.

The doryopteris cordata is a striking houseplant that can add a touch of elegance to any home. The name is a bit of a mouthful, so we call ours Dory. This fern is native to Australia and is known for its delicate, lacy foliage that can grow up to 2 feet long. In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about how to care for a doryopteris cordata. Let’s start with the basics:
- Pick a spot that gets medium light. This plant enjoys bright light, but not direct sunshine. It’ll also be ok in partial shade.
- Water this plant regularly to keep the soil slightly moist but not soggy. Water when the top two inches of soil feel dry.
- This plant loves humidity, so keep yours in a bright bathroom, near a humidifier or mist it every day.
About antenna ferns
Like other ferns, an antenna fern loves to grow in places where the air is humid, particularly near the coast. In the wild, you’d find it growing in Australia. In winter, some of its lovely leaves may die off, but this is nothing to worry about. Cut off any that look sad and wait for more to grow back in spring.

How much light does my antenna fern need?
A doryopteris cordata prefers bright, indirect light and so you can put yours near a window that gets filtered sunlight. Think of a window with sheer curtains or plenty of leafy trees nearby outside. This plant can also tolerate low-light conditions, but it may not grow as quickly or produce as much foliage. It's important to avoid placing this fern in direct sunlight, as this can scorch its delicate leaves.
How often should I water my antenna fern?
Your antenna fern prefers to be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged, and it's important to avoid letting the soil dry out completely. Water your plant when the top two inches of soil feel dry to the touch, and be sure to water it thoroughly, allowing any excess water to drain away. It's important to avoid getting water on the leaves, as this can cause fungal diseases.
What type of soil does my antenna fern need?
A doryopteris cordata prefers well-draining soil that’s rich in organic matter. You can use a soil mix designed for ferns or you can make your own. It's important to avoid using heavy, clay soils that can hold too much moisture and lead to root rot.
Does my antenna fern need a humid environment?
Like most ferns, an antenna fern thrives in a humid environment. Keep yours in a bright bathroom, near a humidifier or mist it daily. This will help keep the leaves happy and healthy. You can also increase humidity levels by setting the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water.
Should I fertilise my antenna fern?
The doryopteris cordata benefits from regular fertilisation during the growing season, which is typically spring and summer. You can use a balanced, water-soluble fertiliser diluted to half strength once a month, or a slow-release fertiliser applied according to the manufacturer's instructions. It's important to avoid over-fertilising your plant, as this can lead to salt buildup in the soil, so always follow the instructions on the pack.
Common antenna fern pests and diseases
An antenna fern is generally pretty disease-free, but it can occasionally be affected by mealybugs or spider mites. If you notice any signs of infestation, such as white, cottony spots or webbing on the leaves, treat your plant with an insecticidal soap.
Can I propagate my antenna fern?
The doryopteris cordata can be propagated through division or spores. To propagate through division, carefully separate the plant into smaller sections, ensuring that each section has a healthy root system. To propagate through spores, place a mature frond in a plastic bag and allow the spores to collect at the bottom. Once the spores have settled, sprinkle them onto a potting mix and keep the soil moist until the new ferns emerge.
The antenna fern is a stunning and easy-to-care-for houseplant that can add a touch of tropical beauty to any home. With a little care and attention, your doryopteris cordata will reward you with years of lush foliage and indoor beauty.
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