Ebony Spleenwort
asplenium platyneuron
Also known as: ["Ebony Spleenwort","Black Spleenwort"]
Overview
A hardy, evergreen fern with dark green, leathery fronds and a distinctive black stem.
Benefits & Perks
["shade tolerant","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Polypodiopsida |
| Order: | Polypodiales |
| Family: | Aspleniaceae |
| Genus: | Asplenium |
| Botanical Name: | Asplenium platyneuron |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: shady woodland garden or shaded indoor pot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil with organic matter like peat moss.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically once or twice a year.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or yellowing fronds.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light; tolerates partial shade; adjust exposure based on season to avoid leaf burn.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light; protect from direct sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement between indoor and outdoor environments as needed.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct sunlight; rotate plant for even growth; adjust light exposure seasonally.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-drained, humus-rich, slightly acidic soil
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).
Ensure good drainage; maintain slightly acidic pH; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F); cooler temperatures (50–60°F) are acceptable during dormancy.
Avoid extreme temperature fluctuations; maintain moderate conditions; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 2 months during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Spores or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Collect spores or divide rhizomes.
- Prepare medium.
- Plant spores or rhizomes.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for growth.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Sphagnum moss or sterile potting mix with perlite.
Hormone
Not necessary for spore propagation; optional for rhizome division.
Timeline
Spores may take several months to germinate; rhizome division can establish in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Spore collection kit, sharp knife, sterile potting mix, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools to prevent disease; maintain consistent humidity for spores; divide rhizomes carefully to avoid damage.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip individual fronds at the base with clean, sharp scissors.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; focus on removing dead or damaged fronds to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Sharp scissors or pruning shears, sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Inspect fronds; sterilize tools; remove dead/damaged fronds; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one; ensure it is not excessively larger.
Method
Use a well-draining soil mix; gently tease out roots if compacted; ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot only when the plant becomes root-bound or every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Check root boundness; prepare new pot and soil; handle roots gently; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution without saturating the soil. Allow excess water to drain away completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate peat moss for acidity and organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth indicate temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Prolonged exposure to temperatures below 50°F can cause leaf damage and slow growth.
Solution: Move plant to a warmer location; protect from drafts; avoid sudden temperature drops.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat above 85°F can lead to dehydration and leaf scorch.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; ensure adequate watering during hot periods.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAsplenium platyneuron is not toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicAsplenium platyneuron is not toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicAsplenium platyneuron, commonly known as ebony spleenwort, is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known toxic effects or physiological impact when ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much light does Asplenium platyneuron need?
A: It thrives in partial to full shade, making it ideal for shaded garden areas or indoor spaces with indirect light.
Q: Is Asplenium platyneuron toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this fern require frequent watering?
A: It is drought-tolerant once established but prefers consistently moist soil, especially in dry conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Aspleniaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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