Bird's Nest Fern — Growing reference
| Scientific name | Asplenium nidus |
|---|---|
| Seed germination (days) | 21–45 |
| Soil temperature for germination (°C) | 18.3–23.9 |
| First harvest or flowering (days) | 365–730 |
| Measured from | Transplant |
| Plant spacing (cm) | 61–121.9 |
| Mature height (cm) | 45.7–152.4 |
| Mature spread (cm) | 61–152.4 |
| USDA hardiness zones | 9–12 |
| Light | Shade |
| Water | Moderate |
| Sowing method | Transplant |
Growing directions
Grow in partial to full shade in moist, humus-rich, well-drained, slightly acidic soil or potting mix; Bird's Nest Fern is one of the most shade-tolerant and adaptable of all large ferns, thriving in the deep, dry shade under large trees where most ferns would fail. Asplenium nidus is a large epiphytic fern native to tropical Asia, eastern Australia, and the Pacific Islands that grows naturally anchored to the bark of large trees, its roots drawing moisture and nutrients from accumulated organic matter. The frond pattern is unlike typical ferns: broad, undivided, strap-like, bright-green, glossy fronds up to 4 feet long arch outward from a central rosette in a shape that perfectly mimics a bird's nest — the dense, brown, fibrous mass of old frond bases at the center closely resembles the construction of a large bird's nest, giving the plant its common name. The fronds have an attractive central black midrib. In zone 9 Gulf Coast gardens, Bird's Nest Fern is one of the finest large-scale shade plants for tropical effect, combining bold architectural form, glossy tropical foliage, and shade tolerance that allows it to thrive under oak trees. It also makes a striking large houseplant for bright-to-moderate indoor light.
Source and local conditions
Typical planning ranges from OpenPlantDB (CC0). Cultivar, climate, season and growing method can change these values. Confirm the seed label and local guidance before planting.
Source & verification
OpenPlantDB · CC0