Blunt-lobed Sword Fern (Nephrolepis obtusiloba)

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Sunlight Bright indirect light; tolerates low indoor light; avoid direct sun which scorches fronds

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Watering Water when top 2 cm of soil is dry; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot

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Temperature Thrives at 18–24℃; avoid temperatures below 12℃ which causes frond browning

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Frond: Arching, pinnate fronds with blunt-tipped leaflets; bright medium green
Rhizome: Short, creeping underground rhizome with wiry stolons
Sori: Clusters of spore cases on underside of frond leaflets

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Watering

Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy

Fertilization

Diluted balanced feed every 4 weeks. Avoid over-fertilizing which causes frond tip burn

Banana peel compost tea：Soak fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours; dilute 1:20 for root drench to support frond growth

Pruning

Trim browned frond tips or entire dead fronds at the base to maintain appearance
Remove old, yellowing fronds to improve airflow and redirect energy to new growth
Divide overcrowded clumps in spring for propagation and to refresh the plant

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Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA-verified non-toxic to cats; no reported toxicity from ingestion

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse health effects from ingestion or contact

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Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental foliage for indoor decor, shaded garden borders; has mild air-purifying properties