Bird's Nest Fern

Asplenium nidusAlso known as: Nest Fern, Crow's Nest Fern

The Bird's Nest Fern features bright green, wavy fronds that unfurl from a central rosette resembling a bird's nest. Native to tropical rainforests of Asia, Australia, and Africa, it's an epiphyte in nature but adapts well as a houseplant. It grows 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 m) wide with dramatic foliage.

Moderate Care

Low to Medium Light

Perennial

Quick Care Summary

Light
Low to Medium Light

Temperature Range
60-80°F (16-27°C)

Ideal Temp
70°F (21°C)

Pet Safe

This plant is non-toxic to cats and dogs. While it's safe to have around pets, ingestion of any plant material may still cause mild stomach upset.

Seasonal Care Schedule

Adjust your care routine based on the season for optimal plant health.

Watering Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Every 5-7 days, keep soil consistently moist
Summer	Every 4-5 days
Fall	Every 7 days
Winter	Every 7-10 days, slightly drier

Water around the edge of pot - never into the central rosette. Avoid getting center wet.

Misting Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	2-3 times per week
Summer	Daily in dry conditions
Fall	2-3 times per week
Winter	Daily with indoor heating

High humidity essential. Mist fronds, not center rosette.

Fertilizing Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Monthly with diluted liquid fertilizer
Summer	Monthly
Fall	Every 6-8 weeks
Winter	No fertilizing

Light feeder - too much fertilizer causes brown spots.

Pruning

Frequency: Remove only dead or damaged fronds

Best Season: Any time

Cut fronds at base. Don't remove healthy outer fronds - they protect the center.

Repotting

Frequency: Every 2-3 years

Best Season: Spring

Use peat-based, well-draining mix. Prefers shallow, wide pots.

Propagation Methods

Spore propagation (advanced technique)
Cannot be divided
Best to purchase established plants

Common Problems

Brown frond tips: Low humidity or inconsistent watering
Pale fronds: Too much light
Rotting center: Water in rosette or overwatering
Slow growth: Low humidity or insufficient nutrients

Pro Tips

Never water directly into the center rosette
Perfect for bathrooms - loves high humidity
Pet-safe and non-toxic to cats and dogs
Unfurling fronds are delicate - don't touch them

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