Hen and Chickens Fern Asplenium bulbiferum

Mother Spleenwort is a tropical fern in the Spleenwort family (Aspleniaceae). It is native to New Zealand and nearby islands. The specific epithet, bulbiferum, means bearing bulbils (aerial bulbs), although these reproductive structures are technically plantlets, not bulbils. 

This fern prefers low light and grows best in dappled to deep shade on well-drained, moist, acidic soil. 

Mother Spleenwort is characterized by feathery, finely cut foliage emerging from a single crown. Tall fronds, growing to a height of four feet, arch gracefully. In addition to reproducing by spores, Mother Spleenwort also reproduces vegetatively. Fronds develop little plantlets that grow to about 2 inches in size, fall off, and grow into new ferns near the mother plant. Another common name, related to this feature, is Hen and Chickens fern. The Maori use it as a food plant, collecting the young fronds that are eaten raw or cooked like a vegetable, similar to asparagus. 

In zones where cultivation is suitable in landscapes, it should be sited in shady and sheltered areas, such as under an awning or in north-facing exposures avoiding sun and wind. It is attractive in containers, mass plantings, hanging baskets, or as specimens in shady or woodland gardens. An acidic soil containing clay, loam, and sand is suitable.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: No serious insect or disease problems. Monitor for aphids, snails, and slugs. Allow for good air circulation. Crown rot can develop from over-watering. Yellowing of the fronds may be caused by direct sun exposure and when root bound.

VIDEO Created by NC State Extension's Homegrown series featuring Mark Weathington, Director of JC Raulston Arboretum.