Asplenium bulbiferum (Hen and Chickens Fern)

Asplenium bulbiferum (Hen and Chickens Fern) is a tufted evergreen fern with gracefully arching, finely divided, light green fronds bearing bulbils at their tips. These plantlets will eventually weigh the frond down, fall off when they reach 2 in. (5 cm), and grow into new ferns after they touch the moist soil. The feathery foliage of Hen and Chickens Fern remains lush and fresh-looking throughout the year. Low maintenance, disease and pest free, this delicate-looking Fern is ideal for containers and hanging baskets where it can be admired close-up or in a shady rock garden.

• Grows up to 4 ft. tall (120 cm) and 3 ft. wide (90 cm).
• Where hardy, grow outdoors in part shade in humus-rich, moist, well-drained soils. To be kept out of direct sunlight.
• May be grown as a houseplant in a mix of equal parts loam, coarse leaf mold, sharp sand, and charcoal. Water moderately when in growth, water sparingly over winter. When in growth, apply a half-strength balanced liquid fertilizer monthly.
• Virtually pest and disease free.
• Dead or damaged fronds may be removed as necessary.
• Propagate by sowing spores or by potting up plantlets.
• Native to Australia, New Zealand.