Bird's-nest fern - Asplenium nidus (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images)

Bird's-nest fern

Also known as: Nest fern

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.

Scientific classification

Species

Bird's-nest fern (Asplenium nidus)

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Perennial

Lifespan

Fern

Plant Type

50 cm to 1 m

Plant Height

50 cm to 1 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

Brown

Fruit Color

Green

Stem Color

Non-dormant

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Slow

Growth Rate

Images of Bird's-nest fern

Distribution of Bird's-nest fern

Distribution Map

Bird's-nest fern is native to South East Asia, Pacific Islands, and Northern Australia. It is found beneath trees in rainforests. It has been introduced in Bangladesh.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Warm, humid areas, garden wall

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Bird's-nest fern can be used for garden greenery, which is a prized choice for rainforest landscaping. It is a common choice for gardens because of its lushly tropical foliage and its impressive size. It is used in gardens because it thrives in light shade and damp soil, and is prized for its bright green foliage. It is a good fit for tropical and rock gardens, and because it grows on the surface of other plants, is often planted with ficus and philodendron.

Symbolism

Smooth and elegant, fragrant and evergreen

Interesting Facts

It is said that bird's-nest ferns wanted to choose a season to bloom, but there were peonies in the spring, lotuses in the summer, chrysanthemums in autumn, and plums in the winter. It missed blooming in the four seasons and so could only be an evergreen plant.

Name Story

Bird's-nest fern: This plant has wide, shiny leaves or fronds that slowly uncurl from the center giving it a nest-like appearance. Therefore, it is given the name bird's nest fern.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Bird's-nest fern, including the following common varieties :

Birds nest fern Bird's-nest fern 'Campio'Bird's-nest fern 'Osaka'Bird's-nest fern 'Crispy Wave'

Quickly Identify Bird's-nest fern

Stemless growth with rosette base

Strap-shaped fronds with wavy edges

Distinctive dark brown-black midrib

Sporophores on underside for reproduction

Leaves with herringbone sori pattern

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Care Guide for Bird's-nest fern

Every week

Water

Full shade

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Potting Mix, Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Bird's-nest fern thrives in high humidity and absorbs moisture from the air and rain. It prefers consistent moisture, requiring weekly watering. As an evergreen often grown indoors, it loves stable temperatures and indirect light, benefiting from regular misting to mimic its humid native conditions.

Fertilize: For optimal growth of bird's-nest fern, use a high nitrogen fertilizer at a quarter-strength monthly during the growing season and bi-monthly in winter. Avoid over-fertilization to prevent foliage burn, and reduce fertilization as bird's-nest fern matures. Always water bird's-nest fern before applying fertilizer to prevent root shock.

Pruning: Bird's-nest fern thrives with minimal pruning, mainly removing dead fronds in early spring for health and aesthetics. This practice improves air circulation, prevents diseases, and boosts growth. Use clean, sharp tools for maintenance and conduct regular inspections to ensure the plant's vitality.

Propagation: Bird's-nest fern propagates in Spring and Autumn via division and spores, with moderate difficulty. Success is signaled by new growth. High humidity is essential for optimal propagation results.

Repotting: Repot bird's-nest fern every 2-3 years in spring, using a shallow, wide container. After repotting, provide bright, indirect light and maintain humidity. Handle bird's-nest fern's sensitive roots with care to prevent disturbance.

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