Ebony spleenwort - Asplenium platyneuron (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images)

Ebony spleenwort

Ebony spleenwort (Asplenium platyneuron) is a small perennial fern that can grow to be 10 to 51 cm tall. Ebony spleenwort foliage resembles a small Christmas fern. This species grows best in partial shade and is commonly found in woodland areas, thickets and mossy banks. Ebony spleenwort flowers bloom in spring, start out green and turn reddish brown.

Scientific classification

Species

Ebony spleenwort (Asplenium platyneuron)

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Green

Leaf Color

Brown, Red, Green

Stem Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

0 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Ebony spleenwort

Distribution of Ebony spleenwort

Distribution Map

Ebony spleenwort is a fern with a native range primarily spanning temperate regions of the Eastern United States. Over time, its presence has expanded, and it is now introduced and naturalized in various parts of the Eastern Hemisphere, including some temperate and tropical zones.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Forest floor or on rocks, often invading masonry, disturbed soils

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Symbolism

Protection, Power

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Quickly Identify Ebony spleenwort

Shiny, dark stem contrasts with light-green sterile fronds.

Fertile fronds are erect, deeper green, and deciduous.

Pale, button-like buds aid in vegetative propagation.

Slender, evergreen fronds with crenate leaflet edges.

Stem is slender, shiny, dark, and minimal branching.

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Care Guide for Ebony spleenwort

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

0 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Ebony spleenwort prefers consistent humidity and thrives in lightly moist soil, requiring weekly watering. As an epiphytic fern suited for indoor cultivation, it tolerates moderate drought but benefits from regular misting to replicate its natural humid environment.

Fertilize: Fertilize ebony spleenwort with balanced nutrition every three months during active growth, using half-strength to prevent root burn. Reduce feeding in winter. Apply near the base, avoiding fronds, and monitor soil fertility for adjustments to ensure health without over-fertilization risks.

Pruning: Ebony spleenwort has glossy, dark green fronds, thriving in rocky, wooded areas. Prune dead fronds from early to late spring to boost growth, air circulation, and vigor. Use clean, sharp tools, avoiding cuts into the root rhizome, to maintain ebony spleenwort's vitality.

Propagation: Ebony spleenwort is propagated through division, separating mature clumps into sections with roots. Each division must be planted at the original depth in well-draining soil, ensuring consistent moisture and protection from direct sunlight for successful establishment.

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