Asplenium
Bird’s-Nest Fern
There are more than 700 varieties of Asplenium, or Bird’s-Nest Ferns. The simple fronds of these ferns add a simple yet cosmopolitan touch to interior decorating.
Other plants that complement Asplenium are Pteris ferns and carnivorous plants.
Most Popular Types
Asplenium nidus is the typical straight-leafed variety of Bird’s-Nest Fern. Asplenium antiquum Leslie is a bit frillier at the leaf edges, and Crispy Wave has interesting rippled leaves.
Light
Partial to full shade
Temperatures
Asplenium can only survive down to 50°F. Because of this, they are typically kept as house plants.
Watering
In their natural habitat, Asplenium capture water in the center of the fronds. Water shouldn’t collect in the center for long periods, though. They prefer high humidity, particularly if kept outdoors during the summer. Keep the soil of the Bird’s-Nest Fern from drying out completely. Spritzing with distilled water will encourage growth.
Toxicity
Non-toxic to animals or humans.
Growth
While they can survive as epiphytic or terrestrial, Asplenium all grow on organic matter. The fronds which resemble banana leaves can grow to 6 ft long in the rainforest. Spores develop on the underside of the fronds.
Origin
Asplenium is native to tropical southeastern Asia, eastern Australia, and Hawaii.
Propagation
From seeds which develop on the underside of the fronds.
Dormancy
The active growing season for Asplenium is during the summer.
Asplenium Crispy Wave birds nest fern
Asplenium Crispy Wave birds nest fern
Asplenium birds nest fern
Center of an Asplenium birds nest fern
Asplenium antiquum birdsnest fern
Asplenium Antiquum birdsnest fern
Workshops at Growing Hobby
Workshop schedule set for after work hours and on Sunday afternoons. We now have central heating and air to make you more comfortable while you shop and attend workshops.