
20/08/2025
Hen and chicken fern, or mouku (Asplenium bulbiferum), produces nutritious young edible shoots known as pikopiko or bush asparagus. Like asparagus, the young shoots have a natural snapping point, when harvesting.
Hen and Chicken fern contains thiaminase, an enzyme that can deplete vitamin B. Cooking the fern thoroughly destroys the enzyme.
Avoid over-harvesting pikopiko, as it can affect the fern's ability to regenerate.
Hen and Chicken Fern has a long history of medicinal use, primarily for skin conditions. The roots were traditionally used to create a wash for treating skin ailments, and the leaves were used as a poultice for wounds, including minor burns. It was also used traditionally for spleen issues, sores, self-defeating habits, addictions, cuts, warts and more.
Another truly useful and beautiful herb.
It’s not meant to be complicated to be well. Nor is it meant to be expensive.
Learn more at www.theherbalists.co.nz