Topic: Asplenium Hen & chickens fern, Asplenium gracillimum. Photo by Leon Perrie., 1 February 2004, © Leon Perrie. The spleenwort Asplenium ferns are recognised by the herring-bone pattern of their reproductive structures on the undersides of their fronds. There are about 20 species native to New Zealand. Is part of topic Leptosporangiate ferns Relationships amongst New Zealand's Asplenium ferns Relationships amongst New Zealand's Asplenium ferns. more> Hen & chickens ferns There are different kinds of hen & chickens ferns, with those commonly cultivated being different from those in the wild. more> Hooker's spleenwort and the Ice Age Hooker's spleenwort survived the Ice Age in populations throughout New Zealand. more> Related topics Botany publications