FloridaLandscapeIQ
Kimberly Queen Fern (Nephrolepis obliterata 'Kimberly Queen') growing in South Florida
Grade Florida #1

Kimberly Queen Fern — South Florida Plant Guide

Nephrolepis obliterata 'Kimberly Queen'

Family: Nephrolepidaceae · Groundcover

Legal status pending editorial verification. Confirm with your county before installation.

Landscape Uses

shaded groundcovercontainer specimenpatio lanai plantmass shade plantingfoundation shade planting

Style Tags

tropicallushshade gardenresortcontainer

South Florida Growing Guide

Light Requirements

Partial ShadeFull ShadePartial Sun

Water Requirements

Moderate4/10

Water deeply 2–3 times per week during establishment, then reduce to weekly once roots are established.

Moderate to high water needs. 2-3x per week dry season. Keep consistently moist but not waterlogged. Higher water than most South Florida plants — not drought tolerant.

Soil and Fertilization

organicloamwell draining indoor mix

Fertilizer: Balanced fertilizer with micronutrients. Light tropical feeder.

Schedule: February, May, September balanced fertilizer.

Salt Tolerance

Low (2/10) — plant away from salt air exposure
Mature Height
23 ft
Mature Width
24 ft
Growth Rate
moderate
Water Demand
4/10
Florida Grade
Florida #1
Installed Cost
$$
USDA Zones
9a, 9b, 10a, 10b, 11
FLEPPC Status
None
Iguana Rating
4/10

Where to Buy in South Florida

Find Kimberly Queen Fern at South Florida nurseries — check availability and pricing at nurseries near you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How fast does Kimberly Queen Fern grow in South Florida?

Kimberly Queen Fern has a moderate growth rate. In South Florida's warm, humid climate it typically establishes quickly with proper watering and fertilization.

Is Kimberly Queen Fern safe for pets?

Yes, Kimberly Queen Fern is considered pet-safe. Generally considered non-toxic to pets. ASPCA does not list as significantly toxic.

How much water does Kimberly Queen Fern need in South Florida?

Moderate water needs (4/10). Water deeply 2–3 times per week during establishment, then reduce to weekly once roots are established.

Can Kimberly Queen Fern tolerate salt air in South Florida?

Kimberly Queen Fern has low salt tolerance (2/10) and is not recommended near areas with significant salt air exposure.

Is Kimberly Queen Fern available in Miami-Dade County?

In Miami-Dade County, Kimberly Queen Fern is classified as: allowed. Allowed.

County Availability in South Florida

Miami-Dade County

Allowed

Allowed. NOT invasive — N.

USDA Zone 10a–11. Tropical climate, year-round warmth and humidity.

View County Guide →

Broward County

Allowed

Allowed. Common Broward shaded groundcover.

USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical with warm winters and wet/dry seasons.

View County Guide →

Palm Beach County

Allowed

Allowed. Cold sensitive — protect below 30°F or use containers that can be moved.

USDA Zone 9b–10b. Transitional zone with occasional winter cold in north.

View County Guide →

Collier County

Allowed

Allowed. Common Collier shaded landscape plant.

USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical Gulf Coast with seasonal flooding.

View County Guide →

Monroe County

Allowed

Allowed. Excellent in Keys shade and humidity.

USDA Zone 11. Tropical maritime, highest salt exposure of all 5 counties.

View County Guide →

Full ordinance references and permit requirements available to Professional subscribers. Always verify current county requirements before installation.

Need a Spec Sheet?

Export a client-ready PDF with Florida Grade specs, county legal status, maintenance schedule, and failure risks. Available to Professional subscribers.

Generate Spec Sheet →

Ask about Kimberly Queen Fern

Get answers grounded in UF/IFAS research and South Florida landscape data.