How to Grow and Care for Mother spleenwort

Mother spleenwort, also known as Mother fern, Hen and chicks fern, New Zealand common spleenwort

Mother spleenwort is an epiphytic fern known for its resilience and easy maintenance. It thrives in indirect light and requires consistently moist soil, making it vital to avoid over-watering. Special care points include providing a well-draining potting mix and ensuring high humidity, which can be achieved by regular misting. Prune older fronds to encourage fresh growth and maintain its ornamental appeal.

Watering schedule: Twice per week

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun

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Planting and Growing Mother spleenwort

Toughness	High
Care Level	High
Care Difficulty	Easy
Lifespan	Perennial
Watering Schedule	Twice per week
Sunlight Requirements	Partial sun
Soil Type	Potting Mix, Garden Soil
Soil pH	5-6
Planting Time	Late spring, Early summer
Hardiness Zones	9-11

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Mother spleenwort is a fern that reaches approximately 2 feet (60 cm) in height and spreads 3 to 4 feet (90 to 120 cm) wide. Its distinguishing arching fronds boast light green leaflets, which are delicately divided multiple times, and contrast with black stems. A key characteristic is its ability to reproduce by dropping plantlets formed on the leaf surfaces. It prefers shady environments and needs ample water, thriving in well-drained, moist, acidic soils. The plant displays a preference for cool conditions, tolerating temperatures down to about 26 °F (-3 °C).