About

Asplenium septentrionale is a compact, evergreen fern that develops a dense, clump-like structure. Its slender, wiry fronds measure between 5 and 20 cm in length and 2 to 4 mm in width, displaying a deep green to bluish-green hue. The fronds are leathery in texture and frequently exhibit forked tips, giving them a grass-like appearance. Although it grows slowly, this fern is known for its longevity and flourishes in rocky, arid environments.

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

Sunlight
Full shade, Partial shade
Soil type
Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
Aspect
East-facing, North-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H5

Plant details

Plant type
Ferns
Habit
Clump forming
Foliage
Evergreen
Height
0.1-0.5 metres
Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height
2-5 years
Suggested uses
Rock garden, Wildlife gardens
Native to
Temp. N. Hemisphere

Care notes

Cultivation
Thrives in rocky crevices, dry stone walls, and shaded slopes, tolerating drought and harsh conditions. See hardy ferns cultivation for more information
Pruning
No pruning required
Propagation
Propagate by division, or propagate by sowing spores as soon as ripe at 15°C
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free