What it is: This listing is a bird's-nest fern (Asplenium nidus). NC State Extension describes a funnel-shaped rosette of glossy, strap-shaped fronds, often with wavy margins and a dark midrib.

Light: Give it bright light or light shade, such as a north-facing window; too much sun may turn it yellow or stop growth (NC State Extension). A grow bulb helps in our dark winters if the room is gloomy, but keep the light gentle. Use a rich, moist, porous fern potting mix (NC State Extension).

Watering & care: Do not let the mix dry out; this plant does not tolerate dry conditions (NC State Extension). Empty any saucer so the pot does not sit in water. Handle the fragile fronds gently.

Humidity: It needs humid air. NC State Extension mentions a pebble tray; a humidifier is a better choice in our dry indoor winter air.

Temperature: NC State Extension lists USDA zones 11a to 12b and says it will not survive temperatures below about 4 °C (40 °F). Ideal temperatures are about 16–21 °C (60–70 °F). Keep it off cold glass and out of drafts and direct heat (NC State Extension).

Winter indoors: In winter, keep it in your brightest frost-free window or under a grow bulb, and be careful not to overwater.

Expected indoor size: NC State Extension's dimensions table is 3 to 5 feet tall and 2 to 3 feet wide, and fronds can grow to 4 to 5 feet long and about 8 inches wide, which is larger than many indoor settings. A potted plant is often kept smaller. How large yours gets depends on the cultivar, light, pot size and care.

Feeding: During active growth, a monthly dilute liquid feed is helpful (NC State Extension). Our Schultz All Purpose Plant Food used lightly is a good starting point. Ease off in winter.

Pets & pests: We do not have an ASPCA listing for bird's-nest fern, so we are not calling it pet-safe. Watch for scale, mealybugs, slugs and bacterial leaf problems, and avoid harsh chemical sprays on the fragile fronds (NC State Extension).

About your plant: Every plant is a little different. Size, fullness and leaf count vary from plant to plant and change with age and light, so we can't promise a particular frond length, fullness or colour. The options listed (4", 6") refer to the pot or container size. They do not guarantee an exact frond length, fullness or colour. Photos show typical plants from our greenhouse, not the specific plant you will receive. The shared gallery image shows other Ferns as inspiration.