Mare's tail fern (Asplenium polyodon)

Mare's tail fern

mare's tail fern has not been recorded or observed to hybridize with other species of its clade, making it unique in its genus. It can be distinguished from others by its chocolate-colored scaly stalk and doubly toothed pinnae. This slow-growing fern has been cultivated for understory planting and trees.

Scientific classification

Species

Mare's tail fern (Asplenium polyodon)

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

80 cm to 90 cm

Plant Height

1.2 m

Spread

Images of Mare's tail fern

Distribution of Mare's tail fern

Distribution Map

Mare's tail fern is a terrestrial fern naturally found in the subtropical regions of the Southern Hemisphere. Its native distribution includes lush, temperate forests on a major island nation in the southwest Pacific. While the plant is endemic to this area, it has also been introduced to various other temperate regions, expanding its presence beyond its original range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Habitat

Mesic to wet forests

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Mare's tail fern

Every week

Water

Full shade

Sunlight

5 - 41 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Mare's tail fern thrives in consistent moisture, resembling its humid forest habitat. It requires weekly watering to maintain health without being overly demanding or drought-tolerant. As an evergreen, mare's tail fern retains its lushness year-round, benefiting from regular hydration even in colder months.

Fertilize: Fertilize mare's tail fern quarterly with diluted balanced fertilizers to support growth and frond health. Reduce in winter to align with mare's tail fern's slow metabolism. Always water before fertilizing to enhance absorption and prevent shock. Use liquid or slow-release formulas, avoiding overfertilization for optimal health.

Pruning: Mare's tail fern features feathery light green fronds. Prune dead or damaged fronds in early to late spring with sterilized tools to enhance growth, maintain shape, and prevent disease. Avoid cutting into the crown to ensure continued vitality, aligning pruning with the plant's active growth phase for optimal recovery.

Propagation: Mare's tail fern is a resilient fern ideal for shaded gardens. Propagate using cuttings that include a rhizome, placed in well-draining, consistently moist medium. Partial shade mimics its natural habitat, promoting growth. With care, new mare's tail fern plants will flourish, enhancing the garden's beauty.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free

Learn More About Mare's tail fern

Plant disease auto-diagnose & prevention

AI-powered plant doctor helps you diagnose plant problems in seconds.

Download the App for Free