Heart Leaf Fern: Overview

An attractive and unusual indoor plant, the Heart Leaf Fern (Hemionitis arifolia) has smooth, leathery leaves growing on dark stems. The leaves are shaped like an elongated heart or the tip of an arrow, which gives this cute small plant its name; it’s also known as the Heart Fern or the Heartleaf Fern. 

This heart-shaped fern is an epiphyte in the Pteridaceae family. In its native Southeast Asian habitats, it grows on trees and fallen logs on the forest floor. It is suitable for hardiness zones 11-12 and can grow as a porch plant. It prefers high humidity and reaches only about 8 inches in height, which makes it a popular choice for terrariums.

This petite fern thrives in warm and humid environments. As a tropical plant that grows under the canopy of the trees in nature, the Heart Fern plant thrives in bright to medium light but needs protection against direct sun rays. It’s not the easiest plant to grow, but its unique beauty and intricacy make it a fantastic houseplant for experienced plant lovers. Like many other fern plants, the Heart Fern is pet-friendly and safe to have around pets or small children.

According to Feng Shui, Hemionitis arifolia heart fern symbolizes love and harmony and brings balance and emotional understanding. Its heart-shaped leaves make it the perfect gift for that special person in your life.

If you love fern plant greenery, consider adding the finely textured Lemon Button Fern and the delightfully exotic Kangaroo Fern to your collection. 

Heart Leaf Fern: Benefits

• Refreshes and cleanses indoor air
• Pet-safe plant
• Suitable for small spaces
• Beautiful foliage that adds an exotic vibe
• Prized for its medicinal properties in Asia

Heart Fern: Care Guide

There are several essential things to know about Hemionitis arifolia care. These charming little plants thrive in humid and warm conditions that mirror their natural tropical habitat. Follow these Heart Fern care tips to keep your plant happy and thriving:

Watering and Humidity

The Heart Leaf Fern prefers moist but never soggy soil, so water it regularly. Use filtered or ‘overnight’ water since this fern can be sensitive to fluoride or chlorine found in tap water. High levels of humidity (70%) are required for this fern plant. Use a humidifier, keep it on a pebble tray, or place it in a humid room, like the kitchen or bathroom.

Light and Temperature

Concerning the Heart Fern light requirements, it prefers consistently bright but indirect light. Keep it out of direct sunlight, as it can scorch its leaves, leaving unsightly brown spots. Warmth is another requirement for this tropical fern; choose a warm location with 60℉ - 85℉.

Soil, Feeding, and Repotting

The best Heart Leaf Fern care includes planting it in well-draining, chunky soil amended with nutrient-rich compost. Feed your Fern every month with a balanced liquid fertilizer for indoor plants. Repot your fern once every two years, providing a 2-inch larger pot with good drainage.

Propagation

The easiest Heart Fern propagation method is division. Divide in spring at the beginning of the growing season. Water the night before and then carefully untangle the fern’s roots into several plants with roots and leaves attached.

Pruning, Cleaning, and Common Issues

One of the Heart Fern benefits is that it doesn’t need frequent pruning. Remove any dead or wilted leaves if necessary. If your fern looks dry and has a lot of brown leaves, trim it to the base and keep the soil evenly moist until you see new fronds growing.

Too much sunlight or heat often produces crisp, brown leaves on your Heartleaf Fern. It’s also sensitive to underwatering, which can cause its leaves to curl inwards and get brown. Check regularly for pests like aphids or mealybugs and use an organic insecticide if necessary.

Heart Leaf Fern: Placement, Companion & Alternative Plants

The Heart Leaf Fern is compact and will thrive in various spaces, provided it gets sufficient light and humidity.

Best Locations & Uses

• Perfect for humid rooms like kitchens and bathrooms
• Suitable for plant lovers with pets
• A great choice for experienced indoor gardeners
• Perfect bedroom plant that cleanses indoor air
• Excellent for hanging baskets or wall planters

Companion Plants

You can set off the lovely, emerald foliage of the Hemionitis arifolia plant by grouping it with other small plants with light to dark green foliage:

• Chinese Money Tree Plant (Pilea peperomioides): Associated with prosperity and good luck, the Chinese Money Tree Plant has cute, round leaves and is a very low-maintenance plant that’s easy to grow, even for beginners.
• Calathea Rattlesnake (Calathea lancifolia): The Calathea Rattlesnake has a vivid, eye-catching pattern on its elongated leaves with purple undersides that it displays when it folds its leaves in the evening.
• English Ivy Glacier (Hedera helix 'Variegata'): A beautiful, variegated variety, the English Ivy Glacier is hardy, low-maintenance, and an amazing air-cleanser. 

Alternative Plants

Other fabulous ferns that will refresh your living space with their unique foliage include:

• Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum aethiopicum): With its dainty fronds, the Maidenhair Fern is a beautiful addition to your interior, being easy to care for and conveniently compact.
• Black Rabbit Foot Fern (Davallia fejeensis): If you like out-of-the-ordinary plants, you’ll love the Black Rabbit Fern with its cute, furry rhizomes and delicate foliage in dark green.
• Japanese Bird's Nest Fern (Asplenium antiquum): The Japanese Bird’s Nest Fern has broad, arched fronds in vivid green and it’s perfect for well-lit locations with some extra humidity.

Order the Gorgeous Heart Leaf Fern From Lively Root Today

Treat yourself to the delightful Heart Fern from Lively Root that will add green charm to your space!