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Asplenium bulbiferum
Hen and Chicks Fern
Asplenium bulbiferum
Asplenium bulbiferum, also known as Mother spleenwort, is an epiphytic fern native to New Zealand and Australia. It's characterized by its long, lance-shaped fronds that produce bulbils (small plantlets) along their edges. These bulbils easily detach and develop into new plants, making it a prolific spreader. The fronds are typically a vibrant green and can reach lengths of up to 60cm. It thrives in shady, moist environments and prefers well-drained soil.
CategoryDetails
Plant TypePerennial plant
Duration to maturity6 months to harvest
Estimated Plant Lifespan10 years lifespan
Sun Requirements2-4 hours direct sunlight (Partial Shade)
Watering Requirements

Method: Top watering

Frequency: Keep consistently moist, avoid waterlogging

Notes: Allow the top inch of soil to dry slightly before watering again.

Humidity Requirements

Level: High

Maintenance: Regular misting or placement near a humidifier.

Cleaning RequirementsAvoid direct sunlight, maintain consistent moisture and humidity, and ensure good air circulation around the plant to prevent fungal diseases.
Temperature Range

Min: 10°C

Max: 25°C

Alternative NamesHen and Chicken Fern, Hen and chickens fern, Mother fern, Caenopteris bulbifera, Asplenium marinum bulbifera, Asplenium ramosum
Hymenophyllum demissum
drooping filmy fern
Hymenophyllum demissum
Both thrive in similar cool, shady, and humid conditions, often found together in the wild. They complement each other aesthetically, with the delicate Killarney fern contrasting nicely with the more robust Mother spleenwort.
Pteridium aquilinum
common bracken
Pteridium aquilinum

Bracken fern is a vigorous grower that can quickly outcompete other plants for resources like water and nutrients, potentially shading out the Mother spleenwort and hindering its growth.

Aphids

Small, sap-sucking insects that can cluster on the fronds, causing discoloration and stunted growth. They excrete honeydew, which can lead to sooty mold.

Scale insects

These tiny insects attach themselves to the fronds and stems, sucking sap and causing yellowing or browning of the foliage. They can be difficult to control.

Steps:

    • Allow bulbils to form naturally along the edges of the fronds.
    • Gently detach mature bulbils.
    • Place bulbils on top of moist potting mix in a shaded location.
    • Keep the potting mix consistently moist but not waterlogged.
    • New plants will develop from the bulbils within a few weeks.

Neem oil

Effective natural insecticide for controlling aphids and scale insects.

Potting mix for epiphytes

Provides well-drained, aerated conditions suitable for the fern's growth.