Pyrrosia nummulariifolia is a widespread epiphytic fern found across tropical and subtropical Asia, including southern China, the eastern Himalayas, India, Sri Lanka, Indochina, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. It typically inhabits lowland to montane forests at elevations from sea level to around 1,500 metres. It grows on tree trunks, rocks, and occasionally as a lithophyte in open forest margins, thriving in shaded or dappled light with high humidity. It is especially common in moist evergreen forests and coastal thickets.
Description:
Pyrrosia nummulariifolia is a compact, mat-forming epiphyte with creeping, slender rhizomes covered in dark brown to blackish scales. The fronds are dimorphic: sterile fronds are rounded to ovate, 1.5–3 cm long, leathery, and arranged in a shingling pattern against the substrate; fertile fronds are narrow, strap-shaped, erect or arching, and range from 10 to 25 cm in length. The upper surface of the fronds is bright green and glabrous, while the underside may be covered in a light brown felt of hairs. Sporangia are produced in discrete round sori along the fertile fronds. It is similar in habit to Pyrrosia piloselloides but has more rounded sterile fronds and broader fertile ones.
Cultivation:
Pyrrosia nummulariifolia thrives in bright, indirect light or light shade and should be sheltered from strong midday sun. Ideal daytime temperatures range between 22°C and 28°C, with nighttime temperatures not falling below 12°C. It prefers high humidity levels of 60–80%, making it well-suited to terrariums or greenhouse conditions. The substrate should be coarse and well-draining, such as a mix of fine bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite or mounted on cork or tree fern plaques. Soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–6.5). Water regularly to keep the root zone moist, allowing the surface to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid waterlogging. Fertilise monthly during the growing season with a diluted balanced fertiliser. Good ventilation is important to prevent rot.
Specifications:
Plant Size: A good-sized plant of 15+ leaves and established on a cork or tree fern mount
Plant Family: Polypodiaceae
Plant Passport: Pyrrosia nummulariifolia B 140084 C 14409 D GB