Hurricane Bird's Nest Fern: Overview

The Hurrican Bird’s Nest Fern (Asplenium nidus ‘Hurrican’), also known as the Twisted Bird’s Nest Fern, is a rare and eye-catching variety of bird’s nest fern. It is recognized for its distinctive, curled, and twisted fronds that resemble the eye of a storm. This unique plant belongs to the Aspleniaceae family and is native to tropical regions of Southeast Asia. It thrives in USDA hardiness zones 9-11, making it a perfect porch plant in warmer climates.

This Hurricane Fern plant typically grows up to 2 feet tall and wide. It prefers low to medium indirect light, making it ideal for shady spots indoors. It’s an easy-care plant suitable for beginner gardeners. Hurricane Ferns symbolize resilience and protection due to their hardy, swirling appearance. Like other ferns, it’s non-toxic and pet-friendly, making it a safe choice for homes with pets. 

Other ferns include the Heart Leaf Fern, the Staghorn Fern, and the Maidenhair Fern, all of which can add variety to your fern collection. 

Hurricane Bird's Nest Fern: Benefits

• Purifies the air, improving indoor air quality
• Adds a tropical and exotic aesthetic appeal to any space
• Symbolic meaning in Feng Shui, representing resilience and positive energy
• Easy to care for, making it ideal for beginners
• Pet-friendly, safe for homes with animals

Hurricane Fern: Care Guide

The Twisted Bird’s Nest Fern is a low-maintenance plant, perfect for beginner plant owners. Its wavy, twisted fronds add a unique look and thrive in the right conditions with minimal effort.

Watering & Humidity

Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, but avoid letting the plant sit in water, as it can lead to root rot. This fern enjoys high humidity, so consider misting it regularly or placing it near a humidifier, especially in drier environments.

Light & Temperature

The Hurricane Fern prefers indirect, medium light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch its leaves. It thrives in temperatures between 50-85°F and dislikes drafts or extreme temperature changes.

Soil & Repotting

Use a well-draining, rich, peat-based potting mix to keep the roots healthy. Repot the fern every 1-2 years or when it outgrows its container. Use a pot with good drainage to prevent excess moisture retention.

Feeding & Propagation

Fertilize during the growing season (spring and summer) with a diluted balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks. The hurricane fern can be propagated through division when repotting, ensuring each section has roots and fronds.

Pruning, Cleaning & Common Issues

Remove any yellowing or damaged fronds to maintain its aesthetic. Common issues include browning tips due to low humidity or overexposure to light. Wipe the fronds with a damp cloth to remove dust, keeping them clean and allowing for better air purification.

Twisted Bird's Nest Fern: Placement, Companion & Alternative Plants

With its unique spiral fronds, the Hurricane Bird’s Nest Fern is a versatile plant that can complement various indoor spaces and decor styles. Whether you’re a seasoned plant enthusiast or a novice indoor gardener, this fern makes a fantastic addition to your collection. 

Best Locations & Uses

• Suitable for plant lovers with pets, as it’s non-toxic.
• It is ideal for experienced indoor gardeners who appreciate rare and tropical plants.
• A perfect choice for office or bedroom spaces where low-maintenance plants are needed.
• Great as a porch plant in warmer climates, where indirect light is available.
• A thoughtful gift for plant lovers, offering both aesthetic appeal and air-purifying benefits. 

Companion Plants

Companion plants for the Hurricane Bird's Nest Fern can enhance the aesthetic appeal of your indoor garden while sharing similar care needs.

• Vriesea Bromeliad (Vriesea splendens): The Vriesea Bromeliad perfectly complements the tropical vibe of the fern and thrives in similar humidity levels.
• Flamingo Flower (Anthurium spp.): Known for its striking red blooms, the Flamingo Flower adds a pop of color and pairs well with the fern in shaded or indirect light conditions.
• Hindu Hoya Rope Plant (Hoya carnosa 'Compacta'): The unique, waxy-leafed Hindu Hoya Rope Plant makes a great companion, sharing the same easy-care requirements while being perfect for hanging displays.

Alternative Plants

If you're looking for alternative plants to the Hurricane Bird's Nest Fern, here are three excellent choices available on Lively Root, sharing similar aesthetics and care needs:

• Kangaroo Fern (Microsorum diversifolium): A pet-friendly fern with lush green fronds, the Kangaroo Fern is known for its air-purifying properties and easy-care nature, perfect for low-light areas.
• Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata): The Boston Fern is another pet-safe, air-purifying fern with graceful, arching fronds, ideal for humid spaces like bathrooms or kitchens.
• Lemon Button Fern (Nephrolepis cordifolia ‘Lemon Button’): The compact Lemon Button Fern has small, round leaves and thrives in similar light and moisture conditions, perfect for tabletops or hanging baskets.

Transform Your Interior With a Hurricane Fern From Lively Root

Transform your home into a lush, tropical haven with a Hurricane Bird's Nest Fern from Lively Root — order yours today!