Care Guide
Giant leather fern
Acrostichum Danaefolium
Care at a Glance
Lighting
Adaptable
Growth Rate
Moderate
Growth Form
Varies
Placement
Versatile
True Aquatic
Yes
Available As
2” and 4” pots
About This Plant
Acrostichum danaefolium Acrostichum danaefolium, also know as Florida's giant leather fern, is an outstanding tropical marginal plant for the water garden. You can really add a lush tropical look to your pond or water feature with this tall fern. Leather fern is great as a background plant in the marginal areas of the pond and can be quite stunning as a solitary specimen plant.
Quick-Reference Details
- Common name
- Giant leather fern
- Scientific name
- Acrostichum Danaefolium
- Family
- Pteridaceae
- Native to
- North America
- Difficulty
- Intermediate
- Requirements
- Tropical marginal
- Available as
- 2” and 4” pots
Difficulty — Intermediate
Forgiving enough for hobbyists with one tank of experience. Watch lighting and nutrient levels for best growth.
CO2 & Fertilization
CO2 is optional. Growth improves with supplementation, but the plant survives and stays presentable without it.
Tank Size & Setup
Works in tanks 10 gallons and up. Match the plant size to your tank depth for the cleanest aquascape.
Aquascaping & Placement
Position to suit your aquascape — most placements work as long as light reaches the leaves.
Tank-Mate Compatibility
Compatible with the full range of community-tank species — tetras, rasboras, livebearers, corydoras, and most other peaceful freshwater fish do not damage the foliage.
Common Care Issues
Slow initial growth
Most aquarium plants pause for 2-4 weeks after planting while they convert from their nursery-grown emersed form to fully submerged growth. New leaves that emerge underwater will look thinner and slightly different — this is the plant adapting, not a problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much light does Giant leather fern need?
Giant leather fern adapts to most planted-tank lighting setups. A standard LED fixture run 7-9 hours a day produces good growth.
Does Giant leather fern need CO2?
CO2 is optional. Growth improves with supplementation, but the plant survives and stays presentable without it.
Is Giant leather fern good for beginners?
Giant leather fern is rated intermediate-level. Forgiving enough for hobbyists with one tank of experience. Watch lighting and nutrient levels for best growth.
How fast does Giant leather fern grow?
Most planted-tank growers report moderate growth, with trims needed every few weeks under typical conditions.
What fish and invertebrates are compatible with Giant leather fern?
Compatible with the full range of community-tank species — tetras, rasboras, livebearers, corydoras, and most other peaceful freshwater fish do not damage the foliage.
Available to Purchase
Giant leather fern — $22.99
Free 2-day shipping on orders over $100