Bird's nest fern

A rosette of glossy fronds

The bird's nest fern is an epiphytic fern with large, entire, glossy and wavy fronds of a bright green, arranged in a spiral around a centre that resembles a nest — hence the common name. Unlike many ferns, its leaves are not divided but have a continuous blade, with a prominent dark central rib. New fronds unfurl from the heart of the rosette like little coils.

Origin and habitat

It is native to the tropical regions of Southeast Asia, eastern Australia, Hawaii, Polynesia, India and eastern Africa. In the wild it is epiphytic: it grows on the trunks and branches of rainforest trees, gathering leaves and debris in its 'nest' that, as they decompose, feed it.

Cultivation

It is one of the easiest ferns to grow indoors. It loves filtered light or part shade — never direct sun, which scorches the fronds — and high ambient humidity. Keep it in a light, well-draining mix, always slightly moist but never soggy. It is important not to pour water into the centre of the rosette, where it could stagnate and encourage rot.

Care

It prefers temperatures between 18 and 27 °C and dislikes cold below 13 °C. It enjoys misting of the fronds and the company of other plants that raise humidity. Feed it sparingly in spring and summer. It is non-toxic, so it is safe even in homes with children and pets.

Notable facts

In the wild the central 'nest' acts as a real nutrient-collecting system: it traps fallen leaves and rainwater, creating a microhabitat that even hosts small invertebrates.