Asplenium nidus

Common Name: Birds Nest Fern, Pakpak-lauin

Family: Aspleniaceae

Country of Origin: tropical Asia, Polynesia

Description: This pantropical, epiphytic fern colonises trees, rock faces and boulders in humid, tropical rainforests. The glossy green, thin, tongue-like fronds have wavy margins and a prominent, almost black midrib. They arise from a densely hairy crown in a radial fashion, somewhat resembling a bird’s nest. It requires warmth and ample humidity.

Uses: Traditional Medicine Uses

Parts utilized: Leaves

• The plant has been reported to be depurative (purifying) and sedative. • In French Polynesia, used for stings and bites, contraception, chest pains and lice. (Source) • In Hawaii, part of an asthma regimen, mixed and pounded together with flowers of ki, mixed with po. (Details) Shoots used for general debility, sores, ulcers. (source)

Studies • Estrogenic Activity: Maternity and medicinal plants in Vanuatu II. Pharmacological screening of five selected species: Five plant species, including A nidus, were studied for possible estrogenic activity. • Antibacterial Activity: In a study of five medicinal ferns, including Aspenium nidus, all showed antibacterial activity which may justify its use in traditional medicine.

Data from Philippine Alternative Medicine, http://www.stuartxchange.org/Pakpak-Lauin.html

USDA Zone: 10b-11

Accession #: 198500858

Accession Date: 1985-12-31 00:00:00

Bloom Status: 🪴 Not Flowering

Location: 3106

Quantity: 2

Source: Unknown

Culture: Focus on good aeration and drainage. May be grown in sphagnum moss or in a 50% - 60% coarse peat mix with plenty of added perlite and composted bark. Ideal pH at 5.5 - 6.5 but may be slightly lower. From Milestone Agriculture's Birds Nest Fern Culture Sheet

Division: Ferns

Class: Polypodiopsida

Subclass: Polypodiidae

Order: Polypodiales

SubOrder: Aspleniineae

Family: Aspleniaceae