The Macho Fern (Nephrolepis biserrata ‘Macho’) is the big, bold version of the familiar sword fern — a Florida native species selected for extra-large, arching fronds that fill a shaded bed in a single season. It is the fastest way to get a lush, jungle-floor look under trees and palms.
Why Florida Customers Choose Us
Macho Fern Breakdown
Appearance:
Long, arching, bright green fronds 3–4 feet long and up to 6 inches wide, with broad leaflets held in a fountain shape.
Clumps are full and mounding and spread outward by runners.
Growth Rate:
Fast.
Fills in quickly in warm, moist conditions.
Size:
3–4 feet tall and 4–6 feet wide, spreading wider over time.
Our 3-gallon plants are ready to divide and spread.
Sunlight Requirements:
Part shade to shade.
Takes morning sun with regular water; hot afternoon sun yellows the fronds.
Water Needs:
Moderate to high.
Likes consistently moist soil and looks its best with regular irrigation; established plants recover from short dry spells.
Soil Preferences:
Rich, moist, well-drained soil with plenty of organic matter; mulch generously.
Maintenance:
Low.
Cut old or tattered fronds at the base. It spreads vigorously by runners, so give it room or hold the edge with bed edging; divide clumps every few years.
Landscape Use:
Mass plantings and groundcover under trees and palms, shaded foundation beds, borders, and softening the base of walls and fences.
Climate Tolerance:
USDA zones 9b–11.
Fronds are burned by frost but the plant regrows from the roots.
Plant a row of Macho Ferns along a shady wall and in a few months you have a waist-high wave of green that asks for nothing but water.
Florida Delivery Available
We have in-stock Macho Fern ready to ship throughout Florida. Multiple sizes available with professional installation options. Order online or text/call 561-898-2028 for expert advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Plant & Care for Macho Fern in Florida
Choose Sun + Spacing
Most Florida plants prefer full to partial sun. Check mature width and space accordingly so plants don’t crowd as they fill in.
Dig Wide, Not Deep
Dig a hole 2–3x wider than the container and slightly shallow. This encourages roots to spread outward into native soil.
Plant at Proper Height
Remove from the pot, loosen circling roots, and plant with the root ball level to slightly above grade.
Water to Establish
Water deeply right after planting. For the first 10–14 days, consistent moisture is critical—don’t let the root ball dry out.
Mulch + Light Maintenance
Apply 2–3 inches of mulch (keep off the stem). Once settled, light trimming encourages fuller growth.
Professional Installation Available: Not comfortable planting yourself? We offer expert installation services throughout Florida. Our team has 15+ years of experience ensuring your plants thrive. Call 561-898-2028 to add installation to your order.
What Florida Customers Say
I was searching for a better plant source and after checking the internet, the consensus by most locals was to check out Dino's Palms. I have ordered multiple times and every plant I have gotten has been above expectations with health and fullness. The customer service is excellent! I am kind of blown away at how great this company is and will continue to use this as my main plant connection.
Dino's Palms just completed a full landscape install at our property in Tequesta. They planted 10 Christmas palms, 9 Coconuts, Silver buttonwood trees, hundreds of clusia, and more small plants. I cannot speak highly enough about the quality and service.
Dino's Palms did an amazing job with delivering and installation of my new calusia. Their plants are very affordable and I highly recommend them.
