Asplenium Scolopendrium – Hart’s-tongue Fern
Asplenium scolopendrium, commonly known as the Hart’s-tongue fern, is a distinctive and elegant evergreen fern native to the shaded woodlands of the UK and Europe. With its glossy, strap-shaped fronds and rich green hue, it brings a timeless charm to gardens, rockeries, and shaded borders.
Planting & Care Advice
Hart’s-tongue fern thrives in moist, well-drained soil with a preference for alkaline or neutral pH, often found in limestone-rich areas. It enjoys partial to full shade, making it ideal for woodland gardens, underplanting, or shaded corners of your outdoor space.
-
Position: Shaded or semi-shaded areas
-
Soil: Moist, humus-rich, well-drained; prefers alkaline conditions
-
Watering: Keep soil consistently moist, especially during dry spells
-
Maintenance: Low; remove damaged fronds in early spring to encourage new growth
This fern is hardy across most of the UK and provides year-round interest with its evergreen foliage.
Ecological Benefits
Asplenium scolopendrium plays a valuable role in supporting biodiversity:
-
Habitat: Offers shelter for small invertebrates and contributes to the micro-ecosystem of shaded woodland areas
-
Air Quality: Like many ferns, it helps improve air quality by filtering pollutants
-
Soil Health: Its root system helps stabilise soil and prevent erosion in shaded, damp environments
It’s a great choice for gardeners looking to create a more sustainable and wildlife-friendly garden.
Historical & Cultural Significance
Historically, Hart’s-tongue fern has been admired for its medicinal properties and symbolic associations:
-
Traditional Uses: In folk medicine, it was believed to aid in treating respiratory and digestive ailments, though such uses are now largely historical and not recommended without professional guidance.
-
Symbolism: The fern’s evergreen nature and unique form have made it a symbol of resilience and renewal in various cultural traditions.
Its name, “Hart’s-tongue,” refers to the shape of its fronds, which resemble the tongue of a deer (hart), and has been used in botanical texts since the 16th century.
Does the height include the pot?
No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description
How long does delivery take?
Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.
Where will you leave my plants?
We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.
