19 Disadvantages of Cinnamon Ferns You Should Know About

When you think of houseplants, ferns might not be the first on your list. Yet, their lush foliage and unique texture make them a popular choice among plant lovers. But before you get swept away by the charm of cinnamon ferns, it’s worth knowing that these plants come with their own set of challenges.

In this article, we’ll explore the less glamorous side of cinnamon ferns. We’ll look at their downsides, from their space-hogging habits to their particular watering needs. If you’re considering adding one of these ferns to your home, read on to make sure you’re prepared for what lies ahead.

1. High Humidity Requirements

Cinnamon ferns thrive in environments with high humidity. If you live in an area with dry air, or if you have central heating, you might find that keeping these ferns happy is more work than you bargained for. They need consistent moisture in the air to keep their leaves from turning brown at the edges.

One way to combat this is by using a humidifier, which can help maintain the right conditions. Alternatively, you could mist your ferns regularly, though this can become a bit of a chore. If you're already juggling several high-maintenance plants, adding a cinnamon fern might push you over the edge.

Interesting enough, placing your fern in a bathroom or kitchen where humidity levels naturally tend to be higher can help. But remember, they still need light, so a window with decent sunlight is a must.

2. Space Consumption

These ferns can get quite large, spreading out to fill the space they’re given. While this can create a lush, tropical feel in your home, it can also turn into a bit of a space hog. If you live in a small apartment or have limited room for plants, a cinnamon fern might quickly outgrow its welcome.

Consider where you’d place such a plant. It’s not a great choice for a tiny windowsill or a crowded shelf. You’ll need to plan for a spot where it can spread out without bumping into other plants or furniture.

• Large pots to accommodate the growing root system
• Ample floor space to allow the plant to spread
• Regular pruning to manage its size

While this growth potential is great for those seeking a statement piece, it’s a disadvantage if you’re tight on space.

3. Sensitivity to Light

Cinnamon ferns require a delicate balance of light. They prefer indirect sunlight, which makes placement tricky. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, turning them brown and crispy. However, too little light can result in a lackluster plant that struggles to thrive.

If you’re someone who likes to move your plants around or change your interior layout frequently, you might find this sensitivity to light frustrating. You’ll need to find a spot where the light conditions remain consistent, which sometimes means sacrificing your preferred room arrangement.

4. Frequent Watering Needs

These ferns love water, but they’re also quite picky about it. They need consistently moist soil, yet overwatering can lead to root rot. Striking the right balance can be a bit of a dance, especially if you’re new to caring for ferns.

Here are a few tips to help:

• Water when the top inch of soil feels dry
• Ensure your pot has good drainage
• Consider using a moisture meter to avoid over or under-watering

If you’re someone who travels frequently or just doesn’t have the time for daily plant care, a cinnamon fern might not be the best fit for you.

5. Susceptibility to Pests

Like many houseplants, cinnamon ferns can attract pests such as spider mites and aphids. These tiny invaders can wreak havoc on your plant’s health, stunting its growth and causing leaves to yellow and drop.

Keeping these pests at bay requires regular inspection and sometimes even the use of insecticidal soap or neem oil. If you’re not keen on adding another task to your plant care routine, this could be a significant downside.

6. Propagation Challenges

If you’re the kind of plant parent who loves to propagate, you might find cinnamon ferns a bit disappointing. Unlike some other ferns, they don’t propagate easily through simple division or leaf cuttings.

Typically, propagation is done through spores, which is a more complex process that requires patience and a bit of know-how. If you were hoping to share your fern with friends or expand your collection, you might find this aspect a bit limiting.

7. Temperature Sensitivity

Cinnamon ferns are quite particular about temperature. They thrive in cooler environments, typically between 60-75°F (15-24°C). If your home tends to get very hot in the summer or very cold in the winter, you might struggle to keep these ferns happy.

Consider the following:

• Avoid placing them near heat sources like radiators
• Keep them away from drafty windows or doors
• Monitor room temperature with a thermometer

If you can’t maintain a stable environment, your fern might not survive long-term.

8. Fertilizer Needs

Unlike some houseplants that are content with minimal feeding, cinnamon ferns benefit from regular fertilization during the growing season. This means adding plant food to your care routine, which can be easy to forget.

A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer applied monthly can keep your fern healthy and vibrant. But if you’re someone who prefers a low-maintenance approach, this could be another strike against cinnamon ferns.

9. Not Pet-Friendly

If you have pets that like to nibble on plants, you’ll need to be cautious with cinnamon ferns. While they’re not necessarily toxic, the texture and taste can cause digestive upset in cats and dogs.

It’s best to keep these ferns out of reach of curious pets. You might need to consider hanging baskets or high shelves, which could limit your placement options.

Ultimately, while cinnamon ferns can add a beautiful touch to your home, they require a level of care and attention that might not suit everyone. If you’re ready for the challenge, they can be a rewarding addition to your plant collection. But if any of these downsides feel like deal-breakers, there are plenty of other ferns and houseplants to choose from that might better fit your lifestyle.

Final Thoughts

We've covered a lot about the potential challenges of cinnamon ferns, from their high humidity needs to their sensitivity to temperature and light. While they can be a beautiful addition to your home, they require a bit more attention than some might expect.

At Cafe Planta, we're here to help you succeed with your plant care. Whether you're interested in cinnamon ferns or other houseplants, we can provide you with all the information and tools you need. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to email us or reach out on Instagram. We're excited to be part of your plant journey!