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AGM plants have been through a rigorous trial and assessment programme. They are:
This plant will provide nectar and pollen for bees and the many other types of pollinating insects.
It is included in an evolving list of plants carefully researched and chosen by RHS experts. Divided into 3 groups these lists, linked below, are maintained by a team of RHS staff and are reviewed annually.
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Other common names hart's tongue fern burnt weed
buttonhole Christ's hair horse tongue
Synonyms Phyllitis scolopendrium
Family Aspleniaceae
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
Details A. scolopendrium is an evergreen fern forming a rosette of arching, rich green, strap-shaped fronds 30-75cm in length, the margins often undulate. Spores borne in conspicuous transverse stripes beneath the fronds
Plant range Temp. N. Hemis.
Foliage Evergreen
Habit Tufted
Hardiness
All ratings refer to the UK growing conditions unless otherwise stated. Minimum temperature ranges (in degrees C) are shown in brackets
H6
Full Shade
Partial Shade
Aspect South-facing or North-facing or West-facing or East-facing
Exposure Exposed or Sheltered
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
MoistureMoist but well-drained
SoilChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
pHAlkaline, Neutral
Ultimate height 0.1-0.5 metres
Ultimate spread 0.1-0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height 5-10 years
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
Propagation Propagate by sowing spores in mid to late summer or by division in spring. Peeled leaf bases can be taken off from where the stem joins with the root. Old leaf bases that are green at the base are incubated in a plastic bag of loam based media. Green swellings can be found and potted to raise new plants
Suggested planting locations and garden types Flower borders and beds Ground Cover Underplanting of Roses and Shrubs Cottage & Informal Garden City & Courtyard Gardens
Pruning Dead or damaged fronds may be removed as necessary
Pests Generally pest free outdoors
Diseases May be infected by a rust in mild, damp winters
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hart's tongue fern
Buy from £7.99 at the RHS Plants Shop
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