Instead, mature fronds are flat, long, and shiny with a decorative wavy edge.
The tongue-like greenery grows in an upright rosette form that some say resembles a bird’s nest.
Mature plants also develop a strong, distinctive brown midrib in the center of the nest.
Zloyel / Getty Images
As with mostfern types, the Japanese bird’s nest fern has quite particular care requirements.
They can also be grown outdoors in warm, humid states that mimic their native tropical habitats.
Locate in or near a north or east-facing window which offers medium, indirect light.
In areas with lower light, humidity must be higher to promote healthy growth.
Soil
Grow yourAsplenium antiquumoutdoorsin well-draining, organically rich, slightly acidic soil.
Indoors you’re free to purchase a fern potting medium or make up your own peat-based mix.
Carefully water from the base around the edges of the rosette.
Temperature and Humidity
This tropical plant needs higher-than-averagehumidity levelsand warm temperatures to thrive.
When grown outside,Asplenium antiquumtolerates temperatures down to 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
However, temperatures between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit promote the healthiest and fastest growth, especially indoors.
These plants aren’t fans of drafts, so keep them away from air conditioning or poorly-sealed windows.
Pruning
Japanese bird’s nest ferns don’t need any major pruning.
In fact, new fronds are very tender and require careful handling.
However, cutting off any dead or dying outer leaves helps direct energy to healthy new growth.
Propagating Asplenium Antiquum
Propagating Japanese bird’s nest ferns is a challenging undertaking.
Replace the old potting medium with a fresh, rich, loose mix.
Common Pests & Plant Diseases
Asplenium antiquumaren’t bothered by too many pests and diseases.
However, fungal problems can occur due to poor air circulation or improper top watering.
Occasionally you might have tocontrol aphid infestationsor other common houseplant pests such asmealybugs,scale, orfungus gnats.
As always with Japanese bird’s nest ferns, take care not to damage the delicate fronds while treating.
Dry air also contributes to brown, curling tips.
Asplenium antiquumis typically grown as an indoor plant.
Indoors the main stumbling block is insufficient humidity.
A humidifier is a good investment if you are cultivating a fern collection.
Asplenium antiquum, like many ferns, have particular requirements meaning they aren’t suited to every home.
Mature Japanese bird’s nest ferns don’t typically grow to reach more than 2 feet when living indoors.
Steamy bathrooms are a common location for these plants.
antiquumis a smaller, slower-growing species with narrower and thinner fronds.
