Asplenium nidus (Birds Nest Fern)

Asplenium nidus (Bird's Nest Fern) is an evergreen fern forming a remarkable rosette of broadly lance-shaped, glossy, bright green fronds adorned with contrasting dark midribs and wavy margins. Unusual for a fern, the fronds are undivided, giving the plant a substantial appearance. The striking foliage features a vase-shaped habit and forms a distinctive shuttlecock-like effect with a nest-like center. The new leaves will constantly emerge from the central area of the plant, or the nest. Mature fronds on plants grown outdoors can reach up to 4-5 ft. (120-150 cm) but reach a modest 1-2 ft. (30-60 cm) when grown in indoor containers. Parallel lines of spores are found on the undersides of the fronds and radiate away from the midrib towards the leaf margin. Asplenium nidus is an epiphytic species that roots itself to trees in its natural habitat and warmer climates.

• Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society for its outstanding qualities
• Grows up to 3-5 ft. tall (90-150 cm) and 2-3 ft. wide (60-90 cm).
• Where hardy, grow outdoors in part to full shade in humus-rich, moist, well-drained soils with added grit. Minimum temperatures of 50ºF (10ºC). To be kept out of direct sunlight.
• May be grown as a houseplant in a porous, evenly moist, well-drained soil (peaty potting mixture) in bright filtered light. Fairly high humidity is required, so site this plant in humidified areas or bathrooms. Ideal indoor temperatures are 60-70ºF (15-21ºC).
• Keep an eye out for slugs, scale, mealybugs and leaf nematode.
• Propagate by spores.
• Native to the tropical Old World.