Hen and Chicken Fern
Asplenium bulbiferum
The Hen and Chicken Fern (scientific name: Asplenium bulbiferum), also commonly known as Mother Spleenwort or by its Māori name Pikopiko, is one of New Zealand's most beloved and recognizable evergreen ferns. A member of the Aspleniaceae family, it is distinguished by its lush, arching fronds and its unique ability to produce small plantlets directly on its leaves. It thrives in moist, shaded forest environments across both islands, where it grows both terrestrially and as an epiphyte. This comprehensive guide provides detailed information on its care, its role as a traditional food source, and its significant ecological importance within our native forest ecosystems. Understanding this plant contributes to the appreciation of our rich biodiversity and heritage, and supports conservation efforts for all native species.
Plant Description
Identification and Physical Characteristics
Asplenium bulbiferumis a clump-forming perennial fern characterized by its gracefully arching, finely divided, and feathery fronds that can reach up to 1.2 meters in length. The light to medium green foliage emerges from a single central crown, creating a soft, tufted silhouette. Its most remarkable feature is the production of small plantlets, or bulbils, which develop directly on the upper surface of the mature fronds. These "chickens" eventually drop off to root in the moist soil below, mirroring the asexual reproductive strategy that gives the plant its common name. The fern also produces typical spleenwort sori on the leaf undersides, though these are often absent in the common cultivated hybrid forms.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Asplenium bulbiferum |
|---|---|
| Height | 0.6-1.2 m |
| Spread | 0.8-1.5 m |
| Water Needs | High; requires consistently moist soil |
| Light | Partial to deep forest shade |
| Frost Tolerance | Moderate; needs shelter from hard frost |
| Salt Tolerance | Low to moderate; found in coastal forests |
| Growth Rate | Moderate |
| Lifespan | Perennial Fern |
Climate Best Suited to
Hen and Chicken Fern is best adapted to the mild, temperate forest climates of New Zealand, flourishing in regions with high humidity and consistent rainfall throughout the year.
Regional Suitability
| City | Climate Suitability |
|---|---|
| Auckland | High |
| Wellington | High |
| Christchurch | Medium |
| Dunedin | High |
Plant Habitat
Natural Occurrence and Ecology
In its natural environment, the Hen and Chicken Fern is primarily found in the moist, shaded ecosystems of conifer-broadleaf and beech forests throughout New Zealand. It has evolved to occupy niches in high-humidity areas, frequently growing along stream banks, near waterfalls, and in damp forest gullies. This versatile fern can be found growing terrestrially on the organic-rich forest floor or epiphytically on the trunks of native trees such as ponga. It is common from sea level up to subalpine altitudes, provided the environment remains sheltered and consistently moist, highlighting its adaptation to the rich, damp microclimates of our primary rainforests.
Growing Requirements
Soil Requirements
Prefers consistently moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil.
- Well-drained
- Acidic preferring
Light Requirements
Grows best in partial to deep shade; avoid direct midday sun.
- Deep Shade
- Partial Shade
Water Requirements
Requires regular and plentiful watering; maintain high humidity.
- High
- Avoid waterlogging
Planting and Establishing
Establishment Guidance
To successfully establish Asplenium bulbiferum, choose a position that is well-shaded and sheltered from drying winds. Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and enrich the ground with plenty of organic compost or leaf mold before planting. Ensure the central crown is set at the same level as the surrounding soil surface to prevent rot. Planting during the cooler, moist months of autumn or early spring is ideal, allowing the fern to establish its root system before summer. Providing a cool root run with a thick layer of mulch can help maintain the high soil moisture and stable temperatures this forest species prefers for vigorous healthy growth.
Ecological Role
Biodiversity and Ecosystem Impact
Hen and Chicken Fern plays a vital role in forest ecosystems by providing structural complexity to the understory and creating vertical habitats for various native invertebrates. Its large, arching fronds offer shelter and cover for forest-dwelling fauna and small lizards. By growing both on the ground and on tree trunks, it contributes to the overall biodiversity and moisture retention of the forest environment. Its unique bulbil production allows for rapid colonization of damp niches, while its presence near waterways helps stabilize soil and support the natural nutrient cycles within New Zealand's unique and intricate native rainforest communities.
Uses & Significance
Garden Uses
In a garden setting, Asplenium bulbiferumis a beautiful choice for shady native ferneries, woodland borders, or as a graceful specimen in a cool courtyard. Its lush, feathery foliage provides high ornamental value year-round and adds an elegant texture that contrasts well with broader-leaved shade plants. It is highly valued for its ability to be grown in pots and hanging baskets, where its fronds can elegantly cascade. Its ease of propagation via bulbils makes it a favorite for gardeners wishing to share plants and create authentic forest displays that showcase the delicate beauty of New Zealand's most iconic native fern species.
- Shady ferneries
- Potted specimen
- Hanging baskets
Ecological Value
Beyond its ornamental appeal, this species holds significant cultural and practical importance. Known as Pikopiko, the young, unfurled fronds are a traditional and nutritious food source for Māori, possessing a flavor similar to asparagus. Historically, it was also utilized within traditional medicine (rongoā) for various common ailments. This deep connection between the people and the Hen and Chicken Fern highlights its significant cultural heritage as a respected resource within the historical and ongoing cultural tapestry of Aotearoa, where the unique properties of forest ferns were understood and valued.
- Edible pikopiko
- Traditional rongoā herb
Landscaping Uses
Modern landscaping can utilize Asplenium bulbiferumto create naturalistic understory layers in specialized native or tropical-themed designs. Its architectural foliage and arching habit make it a perfect softening element for the edges of forest paths or as a lush focal point in a shaded garden. Designers often use it to add a sense of permanence and regional identity to a project, where its vibrant colour and unique "chickens" can be highlighted. Its ability to maintain a neat, clumping habit while providing year-round structural interest makes it a reliable and decorative performer for high-impact native landscaping projects in cooler, humid regions across New Zealand.
Seasonal Care Calendar
Spring
As new fronds and bulbils begin to develop, ensure the soil moisture is consistent. This is the optimal time for maintenance pruning to remove any winter damage and to apply a light dressing of organic compost around the base to support new growth.
- Spring pruning
- Monitor moisture
Summer
Maintain high humidity through regular misting or extra watering during warm dry spells. Ensure the plant remains well-shaded and protected from intense midday sun, which can quickly scorch the delicate feathery fronds. Monitor for slugs.
- Maintain humidity
- Provide shade
Autumn
The bulbils will be large enough to detach and propagate. Tidy up the area by removing any dead fronds or fallen leaves that might smother the central crown. Ensure the site remains well-drained as the weather becomes wetter and cooler.
- Bulbil propagation
- Tidy debris
Winter
Naturally quite hardy in forest environments but sensitive to severe frosts. Minimal intervention is needed during the dormant winter months; simply ensure the area stays free of heavy organic debris that could trap stagnant moisture around the base.
- Frost protection
- Clear debris
When to Prune and How Much
Asplenium bulbiferumrequires very little pruning beyond removing old or damaged foliage. Maintenance is primarily focused on cutting away dead or yellowing fronds at their base in late winter or early spring before the new growth cycle begins. This improves air circulation around the central crown and reduces the potential for fungal diseases in humid environments. Avoid cutting into the healthy green fronds to ensure the plant remains vigorous. Always use sharp, sterilized tools to ensure clean cuts and to maintain the plant's neat and attractive architectural form throughout the year.
- Remove old fronds
- Maintenance thinning
Always use clean, sharp tools.
How to Grow Hen and Chicken Fern
Cultivating the Hen and Chicken Fern (Asplenium bulbiferum) is a rewarding and relatively easy endeavor, making it one of the most popular native ferns for New Zealand gardens. This resilient species is most commonly and reliably grown from the small plantlets (bulbils) that form on its fronds. Replicating its natural moist, shaded forest understory habitat is the most critical factor for ensuring long-term success and maintaining its healthy, arching foliage in both indoor and outdoor settings.
From Bulbils
Propagation via bulbils is the fastest and most successful method for producing new ferns. Detach the small plantlets from the mature frond once they are approximately 1-2 cm in height and have begun to develop their own tiny roots. Place them onto the surface of a moist, organic-rich seed-raising mix or directly onto damp potting soil. Keep them in a warm, humid, and brightly lit spot out of direct sunlight. Providing a humid micro-environment by covering the container with glass or plastic can significantly improve the establishment rate. Once the young ferns have grown several new fronds and established a strong root system, they can be potted on or moved to their permanent garden positions.
Detach bulbils with tiny roots.
- Select mature plantlets
- Place on moist soil
Keep humid until established.
From Cuttings
Vegetative propagation via division of mature clumps is also possible and is best performed in early spring as new growth commences. Carefully lift a healthy clump and divide the central stock into smaller sections, ensuring that each new division has at least one or two active growing points and a substantial portion of the original root system. These divisions should be replanted immediately into a moist, well-draining potting medium and kept in a cool, bright, and highly humid spot until signs of new growth are observed, indicating that they have successfully re-established themselves and are ready for the garden or a specialized container.
Division is best attempted in early spring.
- Carefully separate clumps
- Replant in moist soil
Additional Methods
Ensuring the right environmental conditions is often more critical than complex propagation techniques for this species. It thrives when its roots are kept cool and moist within an organic substrate, making it perfect for specialized shady rockeries or native ferneries. Avoid areas subject to intense midday heat or prolonged drought, which can cause the feathery fronds to scorch and decline. Once established, the fern is relatively low-maintenance, requiring only regular watering and occasional misting during dry periods to maintain its healthy architectural form and vibrant green presence throughout its lifespan in your garden.
Once planted, it requires very little intervention.
- Monitor soil moisture
- Maintain high humidity
Pests & Diseases
Asplenium bulbiferumis generally resistant to most common garden pests, although it can occasionally attract slugs and snails on tender new growth. Regular monitoring and the use of non-toxic controls are recommended to keep the foliage healthy. The primary risk in cultivation is root or crown rot, which occurs if the soil remains stagnant or poorly drained. Occasionally, rust may appear during damp winter months, but this is rarely a significant threat to the fern's long-term health if good air circulation is maintained. Ensuring that the planting site has excellent drainage and appropriate humidity levels are the best ways to ensure the resilience of this hardy native forest fern.
Cultural Significance
Known by the Māori name Pikopiko, Asplenium bulbiferumholds significant historical and cultural importance in New Zealand. The young, unfurled fronds were a traditional and highly valued food resource, harvested and consumed as a nutritious forest green. The fern's unique reproductive strategy of producing plantlets on its leaves also holds a place in native lore. This species represents the deep connection between Māori and the native flora, where the properties of forest ferns were understood and respected within traditional knowledge systems for both practical needs and nutritional value. Today, it remains a powerful symbol of our botanical heritage and the ongoing cultural significance of the native bush.
- Traditional pikopiko resource
- Native forest heritage
Bonus Tip
To truly showcase the spectacular feathery beauty of the Hen and Chicken Fern, grow it in a large hanging basket or a tall container. This allows its arching fronds to cascade freely, providing a lush and naturalistic vertical display that brings a touch of wild New Zealand forest elegance directly into your own shaded patio or indoor garden space.
Related Plants
Explore other native plants that share similar characteristics or habitats with Hen and Chicken Fern (Asplenium bulbiferum), offering further insights into New Zealand's diverse flora. These related species provide context and opportunities for complementary planting in your garden.
Plant Conservation
Conservation Status
Currently classified as 'Not Threatened' nationally, Asplenium bulbiferumremains a stable and abundant part of New Zealand's native forest biodiversity. However, its continued success is linked to the preservation of its specialized moist forest habitats, which can be vulnerable to land development and the spread of aggressive invasive weeds. Ensuring that these natural environments remain protected from excessive human disturbance and ensuring appropriate forest regeneration are key to maintaining the healthy populations of the Hen and Chicken Fern that currently thrive across its wide natural range on both the North and South Islands.