Asplenium scolopendrium

Asplenium scolopendrium

Why Buy Me?

• Easy to grow
• Loves the shade
• Great for a woodland themed garden

Growing Conditions

Light:
Partial to full shade. Prefers dappled light or full shade and is ideal for woodland or shaded garden areas. Avoid direct, intense sunlight, which can scorch the fronds.

Soil:
Moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil. Prefers slightly alkaline to neutral pH and benefits from organically enriched soils. Tolerates clay soils if drainage is improved. Dislikes dry or overly sandy soils.

Exposure:
Best grown in sheltered, shaded positions. Hardy in USDA zones 5–9 (UK H7), tolerating cold winters. Protect from drying winds and extreme heat.

Drought Tolerance:
Low to moderate. Requires consistent moisture to thrive, especially during dry periods. Mulching helps retain soil moisture.

Cultivation & Care

Planting Time:
Plant in spring or autumn when temperatures are cool and rainfall is more consistent, helping roots establish.

Spacing:
Space 30–45 cm (12–18 inches) apart. Grows to about 30–60 cm (12–24 inches) tall and wide, forming neat, upright clumps of arching foliage.

Watering & Fertilization:
Keep soil evenly moist, especially during dry spells. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Fertilize sparingly—too much feed may reduce frond quality. A light application of compost or leaf mould in spring is usually sufficient.

Mulching & Pruning:
Apply a mulch of leaf mould, compost, or well-rotted manure in spring to conserve moisture and enrich the soil. Remove old or damaged fronds in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.

Propagation:
Propagate by division of established clumps in spring or autumn. Can also be propagated from spores, though this process is slow and more challenging.

Seasonal Interest

Spring:
New fronds emerge as tight coils ("croziers") and unfurl into fresh, glossy green, strap-shaped leaves.

Summer:
Maintains lush green foliage with upright, tongue-like fronds that add unique texture and contrast in shade gardens.

Autumn:
Foliage may remain green well into autumn, depending on local conditions.

Winter:
Evergreen to semi-evergreen depending on climate. In mild winters, fronds may remain standing; in colder regions, they may die back and regrow in spring.

Wildlife & Garden Use

Wildlife:
Provides habitat for insects and shelter for small creatures in woodland or shade gardens. Not known for attracting pollinators but contributes to overall biodiversity.

Garden Use:
Ideal for woodland gardens, shady borders, rock gardens, and underplanting for trees and shrubs. Excellent in naturalistic plantings or shaded containers. Pairs well with other ferns and shade-loving perennials.

Companion Plants:
Combines beautifully with Hostas, Heucheras, Pulmonaria, Epimedium, Tiarella, and other ferns like Dryopteris and Polystichum. Its bold, glossy fronds contrast well with finely textured foliage.

Transform your home and garden with the Asplenium scolopendrium , a must-have for any season. Order online now for quick and easy shopping, or drop by your local Thompson's Branch to explore it up close and get personalised recommendations.