Origin of a young leave of birds nest fern plant leaf close-up Sri Lanka,,Asplenium Nidus. Medium to low indirect light is ideal for the growth of bird's nest ferns. These ferns are frequently cultivated for their crinkly leaves,and how crinkly those leaves are depends on the amount of light they receive. For instance,a bird's nest fern with more light will produce more crinkled leaves,whereas one with less light will have flatter leaves. Remember that the fronds of the bird's nest fern will turn yellow and die if exposed to excessive or direct light.