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Mother spleenwort

How to identify Mother spleenwort (Asplenium bulbiferum)

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

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).

Lifespan

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type

Plant Type: Fern

Leaf Type

Leaf Type: Evergreen

Quickly Identify Mother spleenwort

1

Arching fronds with light green, finely divided leaflets.

2

Reproduction through plantlets on leaf surfaces.

3

Dark green, feathery leaves with pronounced veining pattern.

4

Leaves reaching up to 3 feet (90 cm) in length.

5

Tolerant of temperatures down to about 26 °F (-3 °C).

Mother spleenwortMother spleenwortMother spleenwortMother spleenwortMother spleenwort

Detailed Traits of Mother spleenwort

Leaf Features

The leaves of mother spleenwort are bipinnate, finely cut, and feathery, emerging from a single crown. Each leaf can reach a length of up to 3 feet (90 cm). They are dark green, with a smooth texture and an alternate arrangement. Their delicate, fern-like fronds feature a pronounced veining pattern. Small offsets often form along the leaves, eventually dropping to the ground to propagate new plants. The undersides contain sori, where spores develop.

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Mother spleenwort and Their Similar Plants

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Bird's-nest fern vs. Mother spleenwort: What's The Difference?
Bird's-nest fern (Asplenium nidus) is a fern species native to tropical Southeast Asia. The common name bird's-nest fern refers to the plant's central rosette where the fern's fronds unfurl. This part of the plant resembles miniature bird eggs.
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Maidenhair spleenwort vs. Mother spleenwort: What's The Difference?
Maidenhair spleenwort (Asplenium trichomanes) is a miniature fern that forms a rosette of long, slender fronds with black stems and green leaves. Easy to grow, low maintenance. It prefers partial to full shade in fertile, moist but well-drained soil. Virtually pest and disease free.
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Ebony spleenwort vs. Mother spleenwort: What's The Difference?
Ebony spleenwort (Asplenium platyneuron) is a small perennial fern that can grow to be 10 to 51 cm tall. Ebony spleenwort foliage resembles a small Christmas fern. This species grows best in partial shade and is commonly found in woodland areas, thickets and mossy banks. Ebony spleenwort flowers bloom in spring, start out green and turn reddish brown.
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Walking fern vs. Mother spleenwort: What's The Difference?
Walking fern (Asplenium rhizophyllum) gets its unusual name from its growth pattern since it spreads by growing new plants from its leaf tips. Because of this, the plant seems to walk across its growing surface. Walking fern stands out from other ferns because of its unusual leaves which often turn back on themselves. You'll find this fern growing on mossy rocks.
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Key Facts About Mother spleenwort

Attributes of Mother spleenwort
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Fern
Leaf Color
Green
Leaf type
Evergreen
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Scientific Classification of Mother spleenwort

Class
Ferns
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Species
Mother spleenwort (Asplenium bulbiferum)
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