What is this?

by Kenneth Dennis
(Johnsonville SC US)

This plant has red and green leave. The other one I was told that it was a birds nest


Drought Smart Plants reply:
Hi Kenneth, yes, the green one goes by the name of Birds Nest Fern, and its botanical name is Asplenium nidus.

Even though it is a fern, which are generally finicky and delicate, this one is a good plant for beginners, as it has no such worries.

The leathery appearance of the leaves is an indication of the conditions it will thrive in - it seems that the more lacy and delicate the leaves, the higher the humidity will need to be.

Most ferns will be happier in a humid spot, either a brightly lit bathroom or above a kitchen sink, or displayed on trays of pebbles which can be kept damp to raise the humidity of the air around them.

The other plant is one I'm not familiar with. I would need to see closer pictures, and a bloom may help me identify it for you. If it flowers, take several pictures and post again, hopefully that will prod the old brain cells.

Happy Jungle Plant Gardening!
Jacki