For a lush splash of Victorian grandeur, every plant collection should contain a fern.

More tolerant of our centrally-heated homes than many of its feathery forest-floor cousins, this fern is found in nature clasped to tree trunks and branches high in the airy woodland canopies of tropical Asia. They grow this way to elevate themselves into the light and rain, and will enjoy the higher humidity of a bathroom or kitchen.

Happier in shadier locations, their emergent leaves will slowly unfurl from the centre to create a unique, nest-like form.

With a naturally small rootmass, be sure not to over-pot this epiphyte (a plant which grows on trees, but is not a parasite...more of a hitchhiker) and ensure that the roots never completely dry out. Check weekly (get your hands dirty…stick a finger into the pot) and if the top 1-2cm of the substrate feels dry, then itâ"s time for a drink.

However, also make sure the roots are never sitting in water for a long period of time…they wonâ"t like that.