Hart's-tongue Fern
asplenium scolopendrium
Also known as: ["Phyllitis scolopendrium","Phyllitis scolopendrium var. scolopendrium"]
Overview
A distinctive fern with strap-shaped, undivided fronds, native to temperate regions of Europe and North America.
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 scolopendrium |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or indoor pot with indirect light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain moderate humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, rich, slightly acidic soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than 1/3 of the plant at once.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; tolerates lower light but may grow slower.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light; avoid direct sun to prevent leaf burn; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; monitor for signs of stress.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Maintain consistent moisture without saturation; avoid letting the soil dry out completely.
Soil
moist, well-draining, humus-rich soil
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).
Ensure good drainage; maintain slightly acidic pH; enrich with organic matter.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); cooler temperatures in winter promote dormancy.
Avoid drafts; maintain stable temperatures; protect from extreme heat or cold.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with diluted liquid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; apply to moist soil; 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 divisions.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant when rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Spores: sterile peat-based mix; division: standard potting mix with good drainage.
Hormone
Not required for division; spores do not use rooting hormone.
Timeline
Spores: 6–12 months to mature; division: immediate establishment.
Tools Needed
Spore sieve, sterile knife, pots, humidity dome, water spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools to prevent disease; keep spores consistently moist; divide only healthy rhizomes.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip individual fronds at the base; avoid cutting into the rhizome.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged fronds to maintain appearance and health; occasional thinning for airflow.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Inspect for dead/damaged fronds; sterilize tools; prune carefully; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even saturation of the root zone; avoid wetting the foliage to prevent fungal issues.
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 compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or browning leaf tips.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf damage below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots in cold drafts; avoid sudden temperature drops.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced vigor in excessive heat above 85°F (29°C).
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; ensure adequate watering; avoid placing near heat sources.
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 scolopendrium is not toxic to cats. It has no known toxic effects or physiological impact when ingested by felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicAsplenium scolopendrium is not toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects or physiological impacts when ingested by canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicAsplenium scolopendrium, commonly known as hart's-tongue fern, is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known toxic effects or physiological impact when ingested.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I care for Asplenium scolopendrium indoors?
A: Provide bright, indirect light, high humidity, and keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Q: Is Hart's-tongue Fern toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Why are the fronds of my Hart's-tongue Fern turning yellow?
A: Yellowing fronds may indicate overwatering, underwatering, or insufficient light. Adjust care accordingly.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Aspleniaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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