Leatherleaf
By far the most popular cut foliage for use in arrangements, with year-round availability and good display life. Leather Leaf is a flat triangular shaped fern. Leatherleaf‘s dark green foliage branches symmetrically from a central stem, starting wide at the bottom and narrowing towards a pointed tip.
Family: Dryopteridaceae
Species: Rumohra adiantiformis
Origin: Native to the Southern Hemisphere (Madagascar, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and Central America).
Symbolizes: The specific epithet name is from the Greek "adianton" (unwettable) referring to the fronds' ability to shed water. Leather leaf is thought to symbolize delicate attention to a subject, either a person or an event.
Also Known As: Leatherleaf Fern
Care, Handling & Design
Temperature: 34-38F (1-3C)
Humidity: 75-85%
Water: Medium water quality. Avoid softened water.
Vase Life: 7-21 days
What to Look for When Purchasing
The Fronds ( fern "leaves") are triangular, coarsely toothed, 3-4 pinnate at base, 10-24 inches long (25-61 cm). Sori are located on the bottom side of the fronds. Avoid wilted, yellow fronds, broken edges or leatherleaf with signs of dehydration.
Foam Info
Performs well
Design Tips
The popular Leatherleaf, a prominent member of the fern family, is an attractive filler for any floral arrangement. Adding texture and depth to contemporary and traditional designs, their wiry stems give way to a triangular-shaped web of sprouting leaves. Prior to designing, re-cut stems and condition greens in clean buckets with flower food solution for about 2 hours. The full triangular shape makes Leatherleaf an ideal background for highlighting flowers in any floral designs. The brown bumps found on the back of some leaves have no detrimental effect on life.
Ethylene Sensitivity
Low sensitivity
Pest & Disease Information
Leatherleaf are resilient to diseases post-harvest.
Troubleshooting
Frond curl (postharvest wilt) is a physiological disorder characterized by partial or complete folding of the pinna (leaflets) along the midvein and/or complete frond wilting. It is a major problem for the Leatherleaf industry, especially in mid to late summer. The precise cause of this disorder is unknown but water stress can make it worse. When possible, store Leatherleaf in cooler in closed boxes with an inner protective liner of plastic or damp paper. Under proper temperature and humidity conditions, it can be stored for over a week. Greens should be misted lightly as needed to keep moist, but not soggy. Do not leave Leatherleaf unprotected in a spot where direct air is blowing on it.
Product Usage
For optimal care of Leatherleaf, please reference the chart of products below. Make sure to select your region to see which products are available.