Overview

Asplenium lamprophyllum is a tufted ferns in the genus Asplenium, part of the Aspleniaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Asplenium lamprophyllum grows best in full shade and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and alkaline and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, city and courtyard gardens, flower borders and beds, ground cover and underplanting of roses and shrubs.

About

Asplenium lamprophyllum is a tufted evergreen fern belonging to the genus Asplenium, known for its rosette of somewhat leathery fronds. This fern thrives in moist, humus-rich soil under full or partial shade, making it suitable for north, west, or east-facing aspects. It is hardy to UK zone H6 and can grow well in a variety of soil types including chalk, clay, loam, and sand, provided the soil is alkaline or neutral and well-drained. Ideal for cottage gardens, city courtyards, flower borders, and as ground cover, it is particularly attractive in spring and summer.

About the genus

Asplenium is a genus of about 700 species of ferns, often treated as the only genus in the family Aspleniaceae, though other authors consider Hymenasplenium separate, based on molecular phylogenetic analysis of DNA sequences, a different chromosome count, and structural differences in the rhizomes. The type species for the genus is Asplenium marinum.

Wikipedia contributors, "Asplenium", CC BY-SA 4.0Asplenium

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Asplenium

Sunlight
Full shade, Partial shade
Soil type
Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H6

Plant details

Asplenium lamprophyllum size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Ferns
Habit
Tufted
Foliage
Evergreen
Suggested uses
Cottage and informal garden, City and courtyard gardens, Flower borders and beds, Ground cover, Underplanting of roses and shrubs

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Asplenium lamprophyllum

Propagation
Division, Sowing spores as soon as ripe at 15°C
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free outdoors
Disease resistance
May be susceptible to a rust in mild, damp winters

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Asplenium lamprophyllum?

Asplenium lamprophyllum prefers full shade and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Asplenium lamprophyllum need?

Asplenium lamprophyllum is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It prefers alkaline and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

Is Asplenium lamprophyllum hardy in the UK?

Asplenium lamprophyllum has an RHS hardiness rating of H6, meaning it is very hardy, tolerating -20 to -15°C across most of the UK.

How do I propagate Asplenium lamprophyllum?

Division, Sowing spores as soon as ripe at 15°C.