Drynaria quercifolia (Oak leaf basket fern)

Drynaria quercifolia , also known as oakleaf fern or oakleaf basket fern, originates from a large distribution area in Southeast Asia, East Asia, and Australia. It grows epiphytically or lithophytically, often in rather dry locations, and produces two very different types of fronds. The "normal" fronds are up to 50 cm long, lobed, and resemble the leaves of closely related Aglaomorpha (snakebark ferns). In addition to these, it also produces so-called composite fronds. These look like oak leaves in A. quercifolia , hence the name. They perform a very similar function to the fronds of staghorn ferns (Platycerium). They form an upward-opening funnel into which leaves and other detritus fall, which then decomposes over time, providing nutrients to the fern. The plant essentially builds its own flowerpot!

Since these leaves do not need to be green to fulfill their function, they die shortly after reaching maturity and remain as dry but very sturdy baskets on the rhizome. The rhizome itself is creeping or climbing and densely hairy. Large, climbing plants can entwine themselves around entire trees !

This fern is extremely easy to care for and also well-suited as a houseplant. Nevertheless, it is an absolute rarity, virtually never available in Europe.