Asplenium bulbiferum aka Hen And Chickens
Taxonomy ID: 9837
Asplenium bulbiferum, commonly known as mother spleenwort or hen and chicken fern, is a native fern species found exclusively in New Zealand. It is also referred to as pikopiko, mouku, or mauku in the Māori language. The fronds of this fern are not only admired for their delicate, finely divided light green appearance but are also consumed as a vegetable. One unique characteristic of Asplenium bulbiferum is its ability to grow small bulbils on the upper surface of its fronds. Once these bulbils reach approximately 5 cm in size, they detach from the parent fern and, with sufficient moisture in the soil, develop roots and grow into new ferns. This mode of reproduction is more convenient than relying solely on spores. Similar Southern Hemisphere species, such as Asplenium daucifolium, exhibit a comparable method of reproduction. Asplenium bulbiferum can be found thriving in various environments ranging from shaded areas to those with partial sunlight. Although it is native to New Zealand, mother spleenwort is also a popular houseplant choice, known for its graceful, lacy fronds that resemble carrot tops. With proper light and watering, it can bring a vibrant, woodland ambiance to indoor spaces.
Common names
Hen And Chickens, Mother Fern, Mother SpleenwortMore information about Hen And Chickens
How difficult is it to take care of Hen And Chickens
Are you up for a challenge? Hen And Chickens will test your gardening skills and require extra care and attention to thrive.
What is the region of origin of Hen And Chickens
Hen And Chickens’s native range is Worldwide.
What is the right soil for Hen And Chickens
Its needs are relatively simple, but one of the most important is making sure its soil is adequately moist. Without proper moisture, the plant can suffer from wilting and stunted growth. To ensure your Hen And Chickens is healthy, you must choose a potting soil that retains moisture.
Look for a soil with good drainage to prevent root rot, but also make sure it contains plenty of organic matter. Coco coir and sphagnum moss are both excellent ingredients for retaining moisture and providing the #self.names with the nutrients it needs to thrive. If you can find a soil that has a combination of these ingredients, your #self.names will thank you with beautiful blooms.
What is the sunlight requirement for Hen And Chickens
To ensure optimal growth, the Hen And Chickens prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
How to fertilize Hen And Chickens
The growth of Hen And Chickens is gradual and it doesn't necessitate any additional fertilizers. Replacing the soil in its pot once a year should suffice to provide the plant with sufficient nutrition. It's important to keep in mind that plants derive their energy from the sun's rays, not fertilizers.

Is Hen And Chickens toxic to humans/pets?
Hen And Chickens is not known to cause harm to humans or pets.
What is the growth pattern of Hen And Chickens
New growth will sprout from the top of the plant as it grows upwards.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Asplenium Genus

Asplenium rhizophyllum Walking Fern

Asplenium oblongifolium Shining Spleenwort

Asplenium resiliens Blackstem Spleenwort

Asplenium platyneuron Ebony Spleenwort

Asplenium adiantum-nigrum Black Spleenwort

Asplenium nidus Bird's Nest Fern

Asplenium australasicum Australian Bird's Nest Fern

Asplenium appendiculatum Ground Spleenwort
