Rare tropical fern suitable for indoor pots, terrariums, vivariums, and paludariums. Supplied as one rooted rhizome division with leaves (delivered in a sealed bag).

Microsorum thailandicum (Blue Oil Fern) is an extraordinary tropical fern admired for its striking metallic-blue foliage. Its narrow, elongated leaves display a remarkable iridescent sheen, reflecting shades of deep blue, turquoise, and green depending on the viewing angle and lighting conditions. Unlike ordinary green ferns, its distinctive blue coloration is produced by microscopic structures within the leaves that reflect light, creating an almost luminous, oil-like appearance. This rare and slow-growing species is an exceptional choice for tropical terrariums, vivariums, and specialist plant collections.

Native to Thailand, this unusual fern grows naturally in shaded limestone rock crevices, where its creeping rhizomes attach to rocky surfaces. Its leathery, strap-shaped leaves emerge individually along the rhizome, gradually forming an attractive cluster of shimmering foliage. Unlike many common ferns, Blue Oil Fern prefers an airy, well-drained growing environment rather than constantly wet soil. Its spectacular blue iridescence is often most noticeable under subdued lighting, making it particularly attractive in shaded tropical displays.

Details:

• Sold as one healthy rooted rhizome division (not a bunch)
  
• Mature leaves typically reach approx. 15–35 cm in length
  
• Narrow, leathery foliage with metallic iridescence
  
• Very slow-growing tropical fern with creeping rhizomes
  
• Naturally grows on shaded limestone rocks as a lithophyte
  
• Prefers high humidity and low to medium indirect light
  
• Excellent for terrariums, vivariums, paludariums, and indoor ornamental display

Care Tips:

Grow in a loose, well-drained substrate or mount onto suitable rock or wood with moisture-retaining material around the roots. Keep the roots lightly moist without allowing the growing medium to become waterlogged, and avoid burying the creeping rhizome, as this may cause rot. Maintain high humidity, preferably above 70%, with gentle air circulation. Provide low to medium indirect light and avoid direct sunlight, which may damage the foliage or reduce its distinctive blue appearance. Warm, stable temperatures around 18–27°C encourage healthy growth.

Note: Supplied as a rooted rhizome division in emersed form. Leaf size, coloration, and blue iridescence naturally vary depending on plant maturity, lighting conditions, humidity, and viewing angle. The metallic-blue effect is a natural structural characteristic of the leaves and may appear more or less intense under different lighting conditions.