The Austral Gem is a dark green Asplenium fern hybrid created by Chris Goudey of Austral Ferns in Victoria, Australia.  It is also called the “Bird’s Nest Fern”.  This plant is unique to most ferns in the fact that it has stiff, shiny leaves with a waxy texture.  It is a medium sized plant that is a moderately slow grower and should not reach over 12” at maturity.  The Austral Gem prefers evenly moist soil, and as most ferns, it does not appreciate direct light.  It is considered to be much more drought tolerant and more forgiving than other ferns.