Drynaria quercifolia ‘Poonsak’ is an exceptionally unusual and highly collectible epiphytic fern admired for its dramatic foliage and sculptural growth habit. A cultivated form of the Oak Leaf Fern, ‘Poonsak’ is prized for its exaggerated fronds, compact growth and distinctive tropical appearance. Like other Drynaria species, it naturally grows attached to trees in tropical forests where it anchors itself to bark and collects organic debris around its roots.

One of the most fascinating features of Drynaria quercifolia is its two distinct leaf types. The plant develops sterile shield fronds at the base, which hug the mounting surface or pot and form a nest-like structure, alongside larger fertile fronds that extend outward and become deeply lobed with an oak leaf-like appearance. In the ‘Poonsak’ form, these fronds often appear broader, more textured and especially dramatic.

As the plant matures it develops a striking layered appearance, making it a true statement piece whether mounted, grown in hanging baskets or displayed in a decorative planter. Mature specimens can become spectacular collector plants.

Care Guide

Light ☀️

Drynaria quercifolia ‘Poonsak’ thrives in bright, indirect light.

Ideal placement:

• East-facing window
• Bright room with filtered sunlight
• Near a south-facing window with sheer protection

Avoid harsh direct afternoon sunlight which may scorch fronds.

Too little light may result in:

• Slower growth
• Smaller fronds
• Less dramatic foliage development

Water 💧

Unlike many common houseplants, this epiphytic fern prefers moisture with excellent airflow.

Water thoroughly once the growing medium begins partially drying.

General guide:

Spring/Summer: every 5–7 days
Autumn/Winter: every 7–14 days

Keep lightly moist but never saturated.

Mounted plants may require more frequent watering than potted specimens.

Signs of overwatering:

• Soft rhizomes
• Yellowing fronds
• Root decline

Signs of underwatering:

• Dry crispy fronds
• Browning tips
• Curling foliage

Humidity 🌿

Humidity is particularly important.

Ideal humidity:

60–80%

Higher humidity encourages:

• Larger fronds
• Better leaf expansion
• Faster growth
• Healthier shield fronds

Humidifiers, cabinets or grouped plant displays work well.

Good airflow remains important.

Temperature 🌡️

Ideal temperatures:

18–30°C

Avoid temperatures below 15°C.

Protect from:

• Cold draughts
• Chilly windows
• Sudden temperature drops

Growing Medium 🪴

As an epiphyte, Drynaria dislikes dense compost.

Recommended mix:

• 40% orchid bark
• 25% sphagnum moss
• 25% perlite or pumice
• 10% coco coir or compost

Alternatively, mature plants can be mounted onto cork, wood or fern plaques.

Excellent airflow is essential.

Feeding

Feed lightly during active growth:

• Every 4–6 weeks in spring and summer
• Diluted balanced fertiliser at half strength

Avoid heavy feeding.

Repotting

Repot only when necessary:

• Every 2–3 years
• If roots outgrow the container
• When media begins breaking down

Avoid disturbing shield fronds unnecessarily.

Propagation 🌱

Usually propagated through:

Division

Separate portions of rhizome with healthy growth points attached.

Some mature plants may produce offsets.

Common Problems

Brown crispy fronds

• Low humidity
• Underwatering

Yellowing fronds

• Excess moisture

Slow growth

• Insufficient light

Black patches

• Poor airflow around constantly wet foliage

Scale insects

• Check shield fronds regularly

Plant Facts

Botanical name: Drynaria quercifolia ‘Poonsak’
Common name: Oak Leaf Fern ‘Poonsak’
Plant type: Epiphytic tropical fern
Growth habit: Mounted or spreading fern
Growth speed: Moderate
Difficulty: Intermediate
Pet safety: Generally considered non-toxic
Best display: Mounted board, hanging basket or decorative planter

Drynaria quercifolia ‘Poonsak’ offers a very different look from traditional houseplant ferns. Its layered shield fronds and dramatic oak-like foliage create an architectural tropical display that becomes increasingly impressive with age.