Asplenium aka Spleenwort

Asplenium is a genus of about 700 species of ferns, often considered the only genus in the family Aspleniaceae. However, some authors argue that Hymenasplenium should be treated separately due to molecular analysis, chromosome count, and structural differences in the rhizomes. The genus's type species is Asplenium marinum. The most common vernacular name for Asplenium is spleenworts, which is applied to the more "typical" species. One notable species is Asplenium nidus, also known as the bird's nest fern, which is a tender evergreen fern with attractive divided foliage. Another tropical Asplenium species found in cultivation is Asplenium bulbiferum, often referred to as the spleenwort or mother fern. However, it is more challenging to grow and looks different from its cousin. Asplenium ferns are naturally epiphytic, meaning they grow on the surface of other plants. In their rainforest habitats, they can be found growing high in the crooks of trees. These ferns have erect, spoon-shaped fronds of apple color that rise from a central rosette. While healthy plants can have fronds up to 3 feet long, this is rare in most indoor situations. Overall, Asplenium ferns are beautiful plants that require some care to thrive.