Troubleshooting
Licorice Fern problems — and how to fix them
Licorice Fern (Polypodium glycyrrhiza) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Summer frond drop
Often mistaken for death — this species is naturally summer-dormant and sheds fronds in heat. Keep it cool and lightly moist; new fronds return in autumn.
Crispy brown frond tips
Low humidity or dry air from heating. Raise humidity and keep the rhizome from drying out fully during the growing season.
Rhizome rot
Burying the rhizome or leaving it in soggy, airless soil causes rot. Plant it shallow in a chunky, free-draining mix and let excess water escape.
Scorched, bleached fronds
Too much direct sun. Move to bright, filtered light away from hot midday rays.
Prevent licorice fern problems before they start
Most licorice fern issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for licorice fern in general rather than its problems? Read the full licorice fern care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Licorice Fern problems — FAQ
Why is my licorice fern summer frond drop?
Often mistaken for death — this species is naturally summer-dormant and sheds fronds in heat. Keep it cool and lightly moist; new fronds return in autumn.
Why is my licorice fern crispy brown frond tips?
Low humidity or dry air from heating. Raise humidity and keep the rhizome from drying out fully during the growing season.
Why is my licorice fern rhizome rot?
Burying the rhizome or leaving it in soggy, airless soil causes rot. Plant it shallow in a chunky, free-draining mix and let excess water escape.
Why is my licorice fern scorched, bleached fronds?
Too much direct sun. Move to bright, filtered light away from hot midday rays.