Canary Islands spleenwort
asplenium onopteris
Also known as: ["Canary Islands spleenwort","Canary Island spleenwort"]
Overview
A small, evergreen fern native to the Canary Islands, Madeira, and Cape Verde, characterized by its delicate, pinnate fronds and preference for rocky, shaded habitats.
Benefits & Perks
["shade tolerant","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Polypodiopsida |
| Order: | Polypodiales |
| Family: | Aspleniaceae |
| Genus: | Asplenium |
| Botanical Name: | Asplenium onopteris |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: shaded rock garden or indoor pot with bright, indirect light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain moderate humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every few months or when fronds yellow.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or unsightly fronds.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to lower light in winter.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light; avoid direct sun to prevent scorching; place in a spot with filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to filtered light
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct light; monitor for light stress.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, humus-rich soil with some sand
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).
Ensure good drainage; maintain slightly acidic pH; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but not frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent room temperature; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; 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 a mix of peat and perlite.
Hormone
Not necessary for spore propagation; optional for rhizome division.
Timeline
Spores may take 1–3 months to germinate; rhizome division can establish in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Spore print, sharp knife, pots, humidity dome, misting spray.
Quick Tips
Use a sterile environment to prevent mold; keep spores consistently moist; divide rhizomes carefully to avoid damage.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip individual fronds at the base with clean, sharp tools.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; focus on removing dead or damaged fronds to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Pruning shears, scissors, or a sharp knife.
Checklist
Inspect fronds, sanitize tools, cut cleanly, dispose of debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in a new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound.
Checklist
Check root health, prepare new pot, use fresh soil, water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate peat moss for acidity; use a balanced potting mix.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme conditions.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and can cause leaf damage or dieback in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or dehydration in temperatures above 85°F (29°C).
Solution: Increase humidity, provide shade, and water more frequently during heatwaves.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, 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 onopteris is not known to be toxic to cats. It poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicAsplenium onopteris is not known to be toxic to dogs. It poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicAsplenium onopteris is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Asplenium onopteris?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, ensuring the plant is not sitting in water to prevent root rot.
Q: Does Asplenium onopteris require direct sunlight?
A: No, it prefers indirect light or partial shade, mimicking its natural rocky, shaded habitat.
Q: Is Asplenium onopteris toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Aspleniaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to filtered ligh |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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