Jan 30, 2004

Twyford's Microsorium crocodyllus Favorite New Foliage PlantSource: Twyford International

Microsorium crocodyllus, from Twyford International, Inc., was the winner of the Favorite New Foliage Plant of 2004 at TPIE in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. held January 15-17.

A native of Australia, M. crocodyllus is named for its foliage, which resembles the skin of a crocodile. The unusual leaf texture and the plant habit allow this fern to be used for pot and basket production. Foliage can be harvested for cut greens in floral arrangements. It can also be used in combination planters for contrast as well as a specimen plant. Fronds can reach 5-6 feet long. Outdoors, plants are hardy to USDA Zone 11.

As far as crop timing goes, one liner that is planted in a 6-inch pot finishes in four to five months; one liner in a 8-inch pot finishes in seven to eight months and one liner in a 10-inch pot or hanging best finishes in nine to 11 months.

Grower benefits include few insect and disease problems and multiple uses as indoor and outdoor foliage plant grown separately or in combination and as a hanging basket. M. crocodyllus’ unusual, leathery looking leaf gives this plant a unique appearance whether it’s finished in a container by itself or in combinations or used in fresh cut floral arrangements. For more information contact Twyford International Inc. at (800) 905-3263.