Asplenium trichomanes
maidenhair spleenwort
A compact evergreen fern forming a rosette of blackish-stemmed, pinnate fronds with small, rounded or oblong segments; well-suited to planting in a dry wall
Synonyms
Asplenium trichomanoides
Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
5–10 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Brown | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Brown | Green | ||
| Autumn | Brown | Green | ||
| Winter | Brown | Green |
Position
- Full shade
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Aspleniaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Tufted
- Genus
Asplenium are evergreen ferns with short, usually erect rhizomes bearing a rosette of slightly leathery fronds which may be simple, pinnate to 3-pinnate
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- N Termperate, Tropical Mountains
How to grow
Cultivation
Under glass grow in a mix of equal parts loam, coarse leaf mould, sharp sand and charcoal. Water moderately when in growth, water sparingly over winter. When in growth apply a half-strength balanced liquid fertiliser monthly. Grow outdoors in humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil. Prefers alkaline conditions. Bright midday sun can cause damage
Propagation
Propagate by sowing spores in mid to late summer or by division in spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- City and courtyard gardens
- Coastal
- Cottage and informal garden
- Patio and container plants
- Architectural
- Low Maintenance
- Underplanting of roses and shrubs
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Dead or damaged fronds may be removed as necessary
Pests
Generally pest free outdoors
Diseases
Generally disease free
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.