Asplenium nidus L.

Common Name: Birds Nest Fern, Pakpak-lauin
Family: Aspleniaceae

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

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

Accession # 198500858
Source: Unknown
Accession Date: 12-31-1985
Bench: 3108 - EVO: Basal Angiosperms
- Currently: active - healthy
- Qty: 2 confirmed on 03-05-2025

This accession has been observed in bloom on:

data regenerated on Wed, 05 Mar 2025 15:30:01 -0500 [bcm v4.0]

Plant Biodiversity Conservatory and Research Core