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Asplenium nidus

Image of Asplenium nidus

Felder Rushing

Family

Aspleniaceae

Botanical Name

Asplenium nidus

Plant Common Name

Bird's Nest Fern

General Description

This tender evergreen fern from the Old World tropics is a classic houseplant. In its native habitat it is usually epiphytic, growing in trees. In cultivation, however, it also takes well to containers or garden beds. The long linear simple leaves are glossy-green with dark midribs and pointed, often furled tips. The leaves form circular rosettes which accumulate organic debris in their hair-lined centers. The spores are borne in rib-like rows on the underside of the leaf. Numerous cultivars and hybrids of bird's-nest fern are grown, many with patterned or contorted leaves.

Bird’s-nest fern thrives in humid moist environments, whether under cover or in a frost free garden. It prefers shady locations outside and medium to low light inside. The soil should be well drained and rich in organic matter. Give it a buffer zone to protect its easily damaged fronds.

Characteristics

  • AHS Heat Zone

    12 - 3

  • USDA Hardiness Zone

    10 - 15

  • Sunset Zone

    H2, 23, 24

  • Plant Type

    Fern

  • Sun Exposure

    Partial Sun, Partial Shade, Full Shade

  • Height

    1'-6' / 0.3m - 1.8m

  • Width

    1'-4' / 0.3m - 1.2m

  • Native To

    Hawaii, Middle Africa, Southern Asia, Polynesia

Growing Conditions

  • Soil pH

    Acidic, Neutral

  • Soil Drainage

    Well Drained

  • Soil type

    Loam

  • Growth Rate

    Fast

  • Water Requirements

    Average Water

  • Habit

    Upright/Erect

  • Seasonal Interest

    Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter

Ornamental Features

  • Flower Interest

    None

  • Foliage Color (Spring)

    Green, Yellow Green

  • Foliage Color (Summer)

    Green, Yellow Green

  • Foliage Color (Fall)

    Green, Yellow Green

  • Foliage Color (Winter)

    Green, Yellow Green

  • Fragrant Flowers

    No

  • Fragrant Fruit

    No

  • Fragrant Foliage

    No

  • Bark or Stem Fragrant

    No

  • Repeat Bloomer

    No

  • Showy Fruit

    No

  • Edible Fruit

    No

  • Showy Foliage

    Yes

  • Foliage Texture

    Coarse

  • Foliage Sheen

    Glossy

  • Evergreen

    Yes

  • Showy Bark

    No

Special Characteristics

  • Usage

    Container, Feature Plant, Hanging Basket, Houseplant, Rock Garden / Wall, Tropical

  • Sharp or Has Thorns

    No

  • Invasive

    No

  • Self-Sowing

    Yes