About

Ophioglossum vulgatum, the adder's tongue fern, is a small, tuberous fern producing a single, oval, pale-green frond to 15 cm and an erect, fertile spike resembling a serpent's tongue. A fascinating native fern for a moist, grassy meadow or lawn left uncut in spring.

About the genus

Ophioglossum are small, tuberous ferns producing a single, oval, sterile frond and an erect, tongue-like fertile spike. Native to moist grassland, woodland and cliff habitats.

Plant details

Suggested usesBorders, containers, mixed plantings.

Care notes

CultivationPlant in well-drained soil. Water during establishment.
PruningRemove dead growth as needed.
PropagationPropagate by division, cuttings, or seed.
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free.
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-resistant.