Perennials & Grasses

Hart's Tongue Fern

Asplenium scolopendrium

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Hart's tongue fern forms an upright tuft of broad, undivided fronds, a distinctive shape among garden ferns. Its green foliage remains through winter, with rows of sori developing beneath mature fronds. In Southwest Washington, it suits a shaded woodland edge, small garden, or container where its arching growth can be seen up close. At maturity, expect a plant about 8–20 inches tall and 12–24 inches wide, leaving room for its tuft to develop. Give it partial to full shade, moist but well-drained, humus-rich soil, and water during dry periods. Shelter the fronds from hot afternoon sun, which can damage them.

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At a glance

Mature height: About 8–20 inches
Mature spread: About 12–24 inches
Light: Partial to full shade
Hardiness: Generally USDA zones 6–8

The right plant, the right place

Make room for something good.

The upright tuft fits a woodland margin, small garden, rock garden, or container. Its undivided fronds give it a distinct shape among other shade plants.

Where to plant

Allow about 12–24 inches for the mature spread. Partial to full shade is suitable, and some morning sun is generally tolerated.

Through the seasons

Green fronds remain through winter. Rows of sori develop beneath mature fronds; remove dead or damaged foliage in late winter.

Southwest Washington gardens

Give it a good start.

This fern is recommended for maritime Northwest gardens. In Southwest Washington, choose a shaded site and plan to water during dry periods.

Soil, drainage & water

Plant in humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil with a neutral to alkaline pH. Water during dry periods while maintaining good drainage.

A little care goes a long way

Growing well, season after season.

Water during dry periods. In late winter, remove dead or damaged fronds while leaving healthy evergreen growth in place.

Know what to look for

Common growing concerns.

Symptoms can have more than one cause. These notes are a starting point for observing your plant and improving its growing conditions.

Sun-damaged fronds

Fronds show damage after exposure to hot afternoon sun.

Help your plant thrive

Place the fern in partial to full shade, away from hot afternoon sun.

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