Silver Lace Fern
The silver lace fern is a delicate table fern painted down the middle - each narrow leaflet carries a silvery-white central stripe, giving a light, lacy, two-tone look.
🗓️ Last reviewed: July 2026
Overview
The silver lace fern is a delicate table fern painted down the middle - each narrow leaflet carries a silvery-white central stripe, giving a light, lacy, two-tone look. A compact, pretty brake fern for terrariums and humid spots. (Pteris ensiformis 'Evergemiensis'.)
Origin & Natural Habitat
A variegated cultivar of an Asian-Australasian brake fern (Pteris), popular as a small decorative houseplant.
Appearance
Fine, upright, lacy fronds 20-30 cm tall, each narrow leaflet with a bold silvery-white central band and green margins; a light, airy clump.
Why People Grow It - Qualities & Benefits
- Striking silver-and-green variegation
- Compact, terrarium-friendly size
- Light, lacy texture
- Pet-safe (non-toxic true fern)
Care
Light: Bright indirect light brings out the variegation; medium light tolerated. No direct sun.
Water: Keep consistently, evenly moist - brake ferns wilt fast if they dry out - with good drainage.
Soil: Moisture-retentive, peat-free, well-draining mix.
Temperature & Humidity: 16-24°C; wants moderate-to-high humidity - excellent in a terrarium or grouped with other plants.
Feeding: Quarter-to-half-strength feed monthly in spring-summer (ferns are light feeders).
Extra: The variegation fades in poor light - give it bright indirect to keep the silver. A classic terrarium fern for its size and humidity love.
Propagation
Divide the clump; spores are possible but slow.
Common Problems & Pests
Crisping and wilting = too dry or dry air; faded variegation = too little light. Keep it evenly moist.
Toxicity & Safety
Non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Best Suited For
- Growers ready for a little extra care
- Pet households (true ferns are non-toxic)
- Shade and bright-indirect spots
- Terrariums and humid rooms
FAQ
Why is it silver down the middle?
The 'Evergemiensis' cultivar carries a silvery-white central band on each leaflet - a natural variegation that brightens in good light and fades in gloom.
Is it good for terrariums?
Excellent - its compact size and love of steady humidity suit a closed or open terrarium perfectly.