Bird nest ferns, also known as asplenium nidus, are a popular houseplant known for their striking fronds that resemble the nest of a bird. However, some people wonder if bird nest ferns are poisonous, especially if you have pets or small children that may try to eat the plant. In this article, we will explore whether or not bird nest ferns are poisonous and safe for homes with kids and pets.
Are Bird Nest Ferns Toxic?
The good news is that bird nest ferns are generally not poisonous or toxic. Most types of bird nest ferns do not contain any harmful toxins that can cause poisoning if ingested by people, dogs, cats, or other house pets.
Bird nest ferns contain natural compounds like saponins, tannins, and alkaloids. But these are typically not present in high enough concentrations to be toxic. Some minor irritation may occur if the plant is ingested, but serious poisoning is very unlikely.
So you can safely keep a bird nest fern in your home without worrying about poisoning even if you have curious pets or small children. It is not poisonous like some other dangerous houseplants.
Bird Nest Fern Poison Symptoms
In the rare event that someone experiences an allergic reaction or irritation from ingesting or touching a bird nest fern, symptoms would be relatively mild.
Possible bird nest fern poisoning symptoms include:
- Slight dermatitis or skin irritation from contact
- Mild swelling of the lips, tongue, or mouth
- Upset stomach, nausea, vomiting if large quantities are swallowed
- Diarrhea
These effects are typically short-lived and not dangerous or life-threatening. Serious toxicity resulting in hospitalization or death is highly unlikely.
If ingestion does occur and results in vomiting, monitor the person or pet carefully. Call your doctor or veterinarian if symptoms persist or seem severe.
Bird Nest Fern Safety Tips
Here are some tips to safely keep bird nest ferns in homes with children and pets:
- Supervise young children around the plant
- Keep the fern out of reach of pets who may try eating it
- Wash hands after handling the plant
- Don’t let children or pets play with or chew on the leaves
- Place in an area pets can’t access, like on a high shelf
- Teach children not to put plant parts in their mouth
- Remove broken fronds which may be a choking hazard
While bird nest ferns are not very toxic, it is still smart to exercise some basic precautions around the plants if you have pets or toddlers. Supervision and common sense can go a long way towards plant safety!
Varieties of Bird Nest Ferns
There are a few popular varieties of bird nest ferns sold as houseplants:
Asplenium nidus
This is the most common bird nest fern. It has large, wavy green fronds up to 3 feet long that give it a distinct nest-like appearance. The fronds emerge out of a central rosette. This variety is widely available and easy to care for as a houseplant.
Asplenium antiquum
This variety has more finely divided, lacey fronds compared to the asplenium nidus. It also stays smaller, with fronds reaching about 20 inches long. It makes an excellent tabletop or hanging basket fern.
Asplenium australasicum
Also called the Australian bird’s nest fern, this variety has shiny green fronds that grow in a vase shape up to 2 feet tall. The ends of the fronds narrow to a point. It is less common but can still be found at some plant nurseries.
Asplenium bulbiferum
A more unusual and rare bird nest fern variety, asplenium bulbiferum produces small plantlets on the ends of its fronds that can be detached and propagated. The mother plant has long, narrow upright fronds.
Are Other Types of Ferns Poisonous?
While bird nest ferns are non-toxic, other varieties of ferns may be poisonous to some degree if eaten.
Some potentially poisonous fern varieties include:
- Bracken fern
- Royal fern
- Ostrich fern
- Interrupted fern
- Cinnamon fern
- Climbing fern
- Voodoo fern
Toxicity can range from mild to severe depending on the species. The most dangerous is the bracken fern, which contains carcinogenic compounds.
It’s a good idea to research toxicity before bringing any fern into your home besides tried and true safe choices like bird nest ferns. Some uncommon varieties can pose risks for kids and pets if ingested.
Conclusion
Bird nest ferns are considered non-toxic houseplants, meaning they are safe for homes with children and pets when basic precautions are followed. While minor irritation may occur if large quantities are eaten, bird nest ferns do not contain poisonous compounds that can seriously harm humans or animals. Their unique fronds make them great statement pieces indoors. With supervision and by keeping the fern out of reach from curious pets, it can be enjoyed without worry of poisoning.