Ornamental Horticulture

FERNS

Ferns are foliage plants distinguished from almost all other plants in that they do not produce flowers and seeds but reproduce by means of spores. These flowerless plants belong to several different families and yet they have many common characteristics. Some popular ferns are listed below.


1. Adiantum capillus : Venus hair fern
2. A. hispidulum : Australian maiden hair
3. A. bulbiferum : Hen and chiken fern
4. Asplenium sp. : Bird’s nest fern
5. Pteris cretica : Table fern
6. Alsophila crinita : Tree fern
7. Lycopodium cernuum : Tree fern




Details of some of the popular ferns are furnished below



S. No.	Common Name	Remarks
1.	Venus hair fern Adiantum capillus	With pale green new growth this fern is excellent for glasshouse or indoor use. It requires humid conditions, and air movement, but will not tolerate hot, dry winds. It grows to about 40 cm
2.	Australian maiden hair A. hispidulum	This hardy fern will grow strongly even if it is neglected. Its young pink or red fronds grow into striking green ones. Grows to about 55 cm. Sub tropical temperatures are best
3.	Bird’s nest fern A. nidus	A native of the tropics of the old world, it is a graceful species with long (up to 1 m) undivided fronds, each about 7-20 cm broad. The fronds in a large specimen plant form a cup-like cluster, in the shape of a bird's nest.
4.	Adiantum macrophyllum	This fern is an upright form with bright pink new fronds. This fern is tropical-subtropical. Prefers indirect or filtered light. Suitable for indoors, bush-house or shaded garden position. Grows to 0.6m high x 0.6m wide .12oC to 40oC
5	Tree fern Alsophila crinita	The plants like shade and plenty of moisture. The plants of tree fern groups have a straight, tall stem or trunk similar to that of a palm. The large leaves are borne at the apex of the trunk giving the plants a palm-like appearance. The ferns are suitable for cultivation at medium-to-high altitudes. At a lower altitude, one may attempt to grow these plants by providing them with shade and plenty of moisture.
6.	Nephrolepis exaltata (Vernoa Lace)	Small delicate fine lace fronds, with a drooping habit. It is excellent for indoor use, especially in hangers. This fern is not cold hardy