Mother Fern

Plant Bio

Asplenium antiquum is a fern of the group known as bird’s nest ferns. The fern is native to temperate East Asia, in China, Japan, Korea, and Taiwan, on cliffs, dark forests, and tree trunks. It is an IUCN-endangered species in its native habitats. Asplenium antiquum is an evergreen fern, 2–3 ft. (60–90 cm). It has bright green, arching blades with a pointed end and a strong midrib. Asplenium antiquum can readily be distinguished from the closely related Asplenium nidus by its fronds of uniform width.

The key to a healthy bird’s nest fern is providing enough warmth and moisture. Given these two conditions, the ferns can withstand higher light levels. One of the best places to put a bird’s nest fern is on a shower ledge. These plants need filtered light to light shade. Don’t expose yourself to direct sun other than the very early morning sun. Plant the bird’s nest fern in loose, rich organic compost or a peat-based potting mix. A mixture of two parts peat and one part perlite would work well. Otherwise, try a peat-based mixture with organic material. These are true jungle plants. Keep their compost moist, but don’t let the plant become soggy. Also, avoid watering right into the “nest” as that encourages mould and rot. Water the soil rather than the plant