Overview
Asplenium scolopendrium is a tufted ferns in the genus Asplenium, part of the Aspleniaceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 0.1-0.5 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 5-10 years. Asplenium scolopendrium grows best in full shade and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and alkaline and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. It is a holder of the RHS Award of Garden Merit. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden and city and courtyard gardens. It is native to Temp. N. Hemis..
About
This evergreen fern develops a rosette of arching, strap-like fronds that range from 30 to 75 cm in length, often featuring wavy edges. Spores are produced in noticeable transverse lines on the undersides of the fronds.
About the genus
Asplenium is a group of evergreen ferns characterized by short, typically upright rhizomes that support a rosette of somewhat leathery fronds. These fronds can vary from simple to pinnate, and may extend to three times pinnate.
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 scolopendrium size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Ferns
- Habit
- Tufted
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Height
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Spread
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 5-10 years
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, City and courtyard gardens
- Native to
- Temp. N. Hemis.
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Asplenium scolopendrium
- Cultivation
- Grows well in humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil. Bright mid-day sun can cause damage. May be sensitive to fungicides. Tolerant of dry shade but water regularly during the first season and mulch well. See how to grow ferns for further advice
- Pruning
- Dead or damaged fronds may be removed as necessary
- Propagation
- Propagate by division, or propagate by 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
How do I grow Asplenium scolopendrium?
Grows well in humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil. Bright mid-day sun can cause damage. May be sensitive to fungicides. Tolerant of dry shade but water regularly during the first season and mulch well. See how to grow ferns for further advice.
Where is the best place to plant Asplenium scolopendrium?
Asplenium scolopendrium prefers full shade and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Asplenium scolopendrium need?
Asplenium scolopendrium 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.
How do I prune Asplenium scolopendrium?
Dead or damaged fronds may be removed as necessary.
How big does Asplenium scolopendrium grow?
Asplenium scolopendrium reaches a height of 0.1-0.5 metres and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 5-10 years to reach full size.
Is Asplenium scolopendrium hardy in the UK?
Asplenium scolopendrium has a UK hardiness rating of H6.
How do I propagate Asplenium scolopendrium?
Propagate by division, or propagate by sowing spores as soon as ripe at 15°C.