How much sun does Golden Leatherfern need?

Golden Leatherfern grows best in part sun conditions.

Where is Golden Leatherfern native?

Golden Leatherfern (Acrostichum aureum) is native to FL, per vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists.

Is Golden Leatherfern HOA-friendly?

Golden Leatherfern is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.

Golden Leatherfern

Name: Pollinator Patch
Author: Pollinator Patch

Acrostichum aureum

Last reviewed: June 2026

Toxicity unknown

Golden Leatherfern (Acrostichum aureum) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.

Light

part sun

Water

high

Size

24"–72" H × 24"–48" W

Bloom

N/A

Native to

Before you buy

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Browse plants for this ecoregion

Southern Coastal Plain Southern Florida Coastal Plain

Golden leatherfern is a large, dramatic native fern that forms bold clumps of glossy, golden-green fronds. This moisture-loving plant thrives in partially shaded areas and maintains its attractive foliage year-round. It works well as a specimen plant or grouped for tropical landscaping effects.

In an HOA neighborhood

Golden Leatherfern is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.

Works well in: front yard, foundation, mid zone.

Large mature size may overwhelm small planting areas

Wildlife value

While ferns don't attract pollinators, golden leatherfern provides shelter and nesting habitat for birds and small wildlife. The dense fronds offer cover for native fauna in wetland and woodland garden settings.

Common questions

How much sun does Golden Leatherfern need?: Golden Leatherfern grows best in part sun conditions.
Where is Golden Leatherfern native?: Golden Leatherfern (Acrostichum aureum) is native to FL, per vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists.
Is Golden Leatherfern HOA-friendly?: Golden Leatherfern is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.

Native range data from vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

If something looks wrong

Common plant problems, and what to check first

These come up on almost any plant. Each guide lists the likely causes in the order they are worth ruling out, with one thing to check before you act on any of them, and links to the source it came from.

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