Low to moderate indirect light; tolerates spots more than 6 feet from a window better than most ferns. Avoid direct sun (right in the window where sun actually hits the leaves. A strong grow light 4-6 inches away can substitute).Light

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Use distilled or rainwater if possible to avoid tip burn from fluoride and chlorine.Water

Prefers high humidity (60-80%. Group your plants together, set them on a pebble tray with water, or run a humidifier nearby). Use a pebble tray or humidifier rather than misting (note: misting does not actually raise humidity meaningfully. A pebble tray or humidifier is more effective) directly onto fronds.Humidity

Best between 60-75°F (15-24°C). Evergreen in zones 8b-9 with mild conditions.Temperature

easyDifficulty

Mother Fern

Asplenium daucifolium

Easy

The Mother Fern is a graceful, arching fern with finely divided, carrot-like fronds that can reach up to three feet long -- the name 'Carrot Fern' makes a lot more sense once you see one. What makes it genuinely unusual is its trick of growing tiny plantlets directly on its fronds, which drop off and root on their own, earning it the 'Mother' name fair and square. Keep it in a humid, low-light spot and it will quietly do its thing for years.

Care Guide

How to grow Mother Fern

Light

Low to moderate indirect light;

Water

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.

Humidity

60-80%

Temperature

60-75°F

Soil

Rich, moisture-retentive fern mix with

Propagation

Most easily propagated by collecting

Common Problems

Slugs and snails are the main threat outdoors.

Did You Know

Fun Facts

The Mother Fern is endemic to the Mascarene Islands and belongs to the 'Neottopteris clade' identified in a 2020 global Asplenium phylogeny -- a relatively recent piece of botanical detective work.

Pet Safety

Pet safe

Non-toxic to humans, cats, and dogs. Not listed as a concern by major poison control databases.

Mother Fern

How to grow Mother Fern

Fun Facts

Pet safe

Sources

Your Cart