
The Candy Stripe Fern (Pteris aspericaulis) is an eye-catching foliage plant admired for its elegant fronds highlighted with distinctive creamy-white to silvery striping that creates a striking contrast against rich green leaf tissue. This refined coloration gives the plant its popular common name and adds a bright, decorative presence wherever it is displayed. The finely divided fronds arch gracefully outward, forming a soft, layered silhouette that brings texture and visual interest to shelves, tabletops, shaded patios, and indoor growing spaces. Its delicate appearance is balanced by a dependable growth habit, making it a favorite among growers who appreciate ornamental foliage with unique patterning. As new fronds emerge, they unfurl gradually, revealing fresh striped details that contribute to the plant’s continuously evolving appearance throughout the growing season.
Known for its compact yet lush growth, the Candy Stripe Fern develops into a dense clump of attractive foliage that enhances both contemporary and traditional plant collections. The plant thrives in environments that mimic the sheltered conditions of forest understories, where filtered light and consistent moisture support healthy development. Its graceful form pairs beautifully with flowering plants, tropical specimens, and decorative containers, creating a layered and sophisticated display. The combination of striped fronds, refined texture, and steady growth makes this fern an excellent choice for adding depth and brightness to shaded areas. Whether featured as a standalone accent or incorporated into a larger arrangement, the Candy Stripe Fern offers enduring visual appeal and a distinctive ornamental character that stands out among foliage plants.
- Physical Characteristics: Distinguished by arching fronds marked with bright striped variegation, the Candy Stripe Fern offers a delicate yet dramatic visual effect. The foliage forms a dense, layered mound with finely textured leaflets that create movement and depth. Its compact structure and decorative patterning make it a standout choice for shaded displays and ornamental container plantings.
- Sunlight Requirements: The Candy Stripe Fern performs best in bright, filtered light where its distinctive striping remains vivid and attractive. Avoid prolonged exposure to intense direct afternoon sun, which may diminish the appearance of the foliage. Gentle morning light or lightly shaded conditions encourage balanced growth while maintaining the plant’s elegant texture and coloration.
- Watering Guidelines: Consistent moisture is important for maintaining lush, healthy foliage. Water when the growing medium begins to feel slightly dry near the surface, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone evenly. Avoid allowing the plant to remain completely dry for extended periods. Steady watering habits help support continuous growth and preserve the fern’s refined appearance.
- Soil Preferences: This fern grows best in a loose, moisture-retentive growing medium that also allows excess water to move away efficiently. A blend that remains evenly moist without becoming compacted supports strong root development and sustained foliage production. Good structure around the roots helps create favorable growing conditions and encourages long-term vigor.
- Growth Rate and Maintenance: The Candy Stripe Fern typically develops at a moderate pace, gradually producing additional fronds that create a fuller and more impressive display over time. Routine grooming is minimal and generally consists of removing older fronds as new growth appears. Its naturally tidy habit makes it an appealing option for growers seeking attractive foliage with straightforward upkeep.
1. Warranty
All Wekiva Foliage plants come with a 30 day warranty. If your plant is damaged during delivery, please contact us within 48 hours.
2. Shipping Restrictions
Unfortunately we are unable to ship plants to CA, AZ, HI, and PR.
3. Weather Advisory
Please be aware of extreme cold or hot weather at the time of purchase. We ask that customers take responsibility for products ordered during extreme weather events.
30 Day Guarantee
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Sustainably Grown
Over 50 Years In The Foliage Industry
Wekiva Foliage is located in the heart of Wekiva Springs in Apopka, Florida. We have been specializing in growing landscape and indoor plants for over 20 years and have been in the foliage industry for over 50 years.
Testimonials
Natalie"Came in perfect condition--thank you!"
Matthew"Amazing Plants! I was so happy to see these way larger than the plants pictured because I know how slow most cycads grow."
Nathaniel"This is the first time I've ever ordered plants online, so I had no idea what to expect. When I saw the description of 'comes in a 4" growers' pot' I figured I'd be getting some fairly small plants--nope! The bamboo palms were fully 2' tall from root to top leaf, and perfectly healthy. All 5 plants were VERY well secured in their box, to the point that the bottom layer was even spray-foamed to the cardboard! I couldn't ask for a better experience and I'm so excited to see these plants grow. Five stars!"
Trisha"Thrilled with my purchase! This seller went above any beyond! The packaging was very careful, the plants are so much bigger than I expected, and I was given more than what was depicted in the item description. 10/10 all round!"
R"This is SO BEAUTIFUL! Packaging was perfect and efficient, plant was in excellent condition. I'm in love with this plant and I will definitely order more."

