Leatherleaf Fern
Leatherleaf fern (Rumohra adiantiformis) is the florist's default fern — a tough, triangular frond with a firm, almost plasticky texture that holds up far better than most ferns out of water. Deep glossy green and finely divided, it adds airy depth and a woodland feel without wilting. It is grown commercially on a huge scale and is one of the cheapest, most available cut greens worldwide. Florists use it to back corsages, line hand-tied bouquets and soften funeral and everyday designs.
| Family | Dryopteridaceae |
|---|---|
| Origin | Southern Hemisphere (South Africa, South America, Australasia) |
| Peak season | January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December |
| Availability | January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December |
| Stem length | 30–50 cm |
| Vase life | 10–21 days |
| Colors | green |
| Price tier | budget |
Recut the woody frond stem and submerge in cool water; leatherleaf benefits from a full-frond dunk to rehydrate. Let it drink for a few hours before use and it will last two weeks or more. Store cold at 1-3°C, where it keeps for weeks. Mist occasionally in dry rooms to keep the fronds crisp.
- •Recut frond stems on the diagonal
- •Dunk whole fronds to rehydrate
- •Drink several hours before use
- •Store cold at 1-3°C
- •Mist in dry conditions
- •Keep out of direct sun
