Drynaria quercifolia: Oak Leaf Basket Fern

Drynaria quercifolia, the Oak Leaf Basket Fern, is a spectacular, epiphytic fern native to tropical Asia and Australia. It produces two distinct types of fronds: sterile, nest fronds that are broad, rounded, lobed, and persistent, forming a "basket" that catches debris and humus; and fertile, foliage fronds that are tall, deeply pinnatifid, and oak-leaf shaped, deciduous in dry season. The rhizome creeps over branches.

Plant Profile

This fern requires a warm, humid, frost-free climate (USDA 10+), bright shade, and excellent drainage as an epiphyte. Mount on a plaque, basket, or tree. The nest fronds turn brown and persist, creating the characteristic basket. The oak-leaf foliage fronds are large and dramatic. A magnificent, structural epiphyte for tropical collections.