Hart's Tongue Fern Asplenium scolopendrium
ABOUT
The common name of Asplenium scolopendrium is Hart's-tongue fern. This plant is characterized by its distinctive, glossy green leaves that are shaped like elongated tongues. The leaves are uncut with wavy edges, which gives the plant a unique and attractive appearance. Typically, the surface of each leaf is smooth with a leathery texture, contributing to the fern's robust look. The leaves emerge from a central rosette, often starting as curled up fronds that unfurl as they mature. The rich green color of the Hart's-tongue fern adds a vibrant splash of greenery to its surroundings. On the underside of the leaves, there are typically brown or rust-colored spore-producing structures, which are an important part of the fern's reproductive system. These are arranged in lines along the leaf veins and become more noticeable as the plant matures. Overall, the Hart's-tongue fern has an elegant and simple form, with its individual leaves standing out due to their distinct shape and glossy finish. The graceful arch of its fronds contributes to its ornamental value, making it a favorite choice in woodland gardens and shaded areas. Its evergreen nature ensures that it provides interest throughout the year, maintaining its lush appearance in suitable conditions.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Aspleniaceae
Synonyms
Hart's Tongue Fern, Harts-Tongue Fern, Horse Tongue, Burn Tongue, Buttonhole, Hound's Tongue, Phyllitis Scolopendrium
Common names
Asplenium scolopendrium var. americanum, Asplenium scolopendrium var. furcatum, Asplenium scolopendrium var. hirtum, Asplenium scolopendrium var. incisum, Asplenium scolopendrium var. insulare, Asplenium scolopendrium var. polyschides, Asplenium scolopendrium var. prionodes, Asplenium scolopendrium var. scolopendrium, Asplenium scolopendrium var. seelosii, Asplenium scolopendrium var. serratum, Scolopendrium vulgare, Phyllitis scolopendrium, Phyllitis scolopendrium var. americanum, Phyllitis scolopendrium var. scolopendrium.
ToxicityTo humans
Hart's tongue fern (Asplenium scolopendrium) is not considered toxic to humans. It does not contain any known toxins that would cause harm if ingested in small quantities. However, as with any plant, individual allergies or sensitivities could cause adverse reactions in some people, and it is generally not recommended to consume plants that are not known to be edible.
To pets
Hart's tongue fern (Asplenium scolopendrium) is also not toxic to pets such as cats and dogs. It does not contain substances known to cause poisoning in animals. However, ingestion of any plant material could potentially cause mild stomach upset in some pets due to the fiber content or if the pet has a sensitive stomach. It's always a good practice to keep an eye on pets around plants and discourage them from eating ornamental foliage.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Fern
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ecosystem Support: Hart's tongue fern provides habitat and food for various insects and wildlife, contributing to biodiversity.
- Aesthetic Value: With its unique, undivided fronds, hart's tongue fern adds beauty and visual interest to gardens and natural landscapes.
- Soil Stabilization: This fern can help prevent soil erosion due to its root system anchoring the soil in place, especially in shady, woodland areas.
- Water Conservation: Hart's tongue fern is suitable for shady gardens where it can thrive with less water than sun-loving plants, aiding in conservation efforts.
- Shade Tolerance: This plant excels in shaded areas where other plants might not grow, making it valuable for underplanting in wooded or shaded gardens.
- Low Maintenance: Hart's tongue fern requires minimal care once established, making it an easy addition for both experienced and novice gardeners.
- Seasonal Interest: It provides year-round greenery in many climates, adding to the winter interest of a garden when other plants are dormant.
Medical Properties- Expectorant: Asplenium scolopendrium, commonly known as Hart's-tongue fern, has been traditionally used to help expel phlegm from the respiratory tract.
- Diuretic: It has been attributed with diuretic properties, potentially aiding in urinary system function by increasing the rate of urination.
- Laxative: The fern has been thought to show mild laxative effects, helping to relieve constipation.
- Astringent: The plant has been used for its astringent action, which may help to contract and tighten tissues.
- Vulnerary: Historically, Hart's-tongue fern was sometimes used for its vulnerary properties, believed to aid in the healing of wounds.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Hart's tongue fern is sometimes used in landscaping for its unique appearance, with its long, undivided fronds adding textural contrast to garden designs.
- The plant is often utilized in terrariums and bottle gardens due to its shade-loving nature and ability to thrive in high humidity environments.
- In floral arrangements, the fresh or dried fronds of Hart's tongue fern can be used as a long-lasting green accent among flowers.
- Traditional basketry can incorporate the fern’s fronds as natural decoration or as a filler material between weaves for a rustic look.
- Artists and crafters may use Hart's tongue fern in pressed flower art due to its distinctive leaf shape that maintains its form well when pressed and dried.
- It can be featured in traditional shade gardens, also known as ferneries, that are dedicated to showcasing a variety of fern species.
- The plant is used in living moss walls or green walls within indoor spaces to create a lush tapestry of different shades of green.
- Hart's tongue fern can be planted on cool, shady green roofs where conditions are too harsh for other plants, thus promoting biodiversity.
- Some cultures use the fern symbolically in ceremonies or as a motif in art, representing secret knowledge or solitude due to its often secluded growing spots.
- Educational institutions and botanical gardens may cultivate Hart's tongue fern to teach about plant diversity, especially in fern and shade plant collections.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Hart's-tongue fern is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Hart's-tongue fern is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: As the common name "Hart's tongue fern" suggests, the shape of its fronds resembles the tongue of a deer or hart. This plant is known for its ability to grow in tough environments, like crevices in rocky walls, symbolizing the ability to endure and thrive in difficult conditions.
- Longevity: Hart's tongue fern is a perennial plant, meaning it lives for several years. It symbolizes long-lasting life and persistence.
- Health and Vitality: Historically, ferns have been associated with health and vitality. Hart's tongue fern's lush green leaves can be seen as a representation of good health and robust energy.
- Protection: In some cultures, ferns are believed to have protective qualities. As a fern, Hart's tongue fern might symbolize a safe haven or protection against harm.
- Solitude: This plant often grows in solitary locations, not typically in dense clusters like some other ferns. Its growth habit can symbolize the beauty of solitude and the importance of individuality.
WaterHart's tongue fern should be watered thoroughly whenever the soil feels dry to the touch. Ensure consistent moisture levels by watering every 1 to 2 weeks, with about 8-16 ounces of water each time, depending on pot size and indoor climate conditions. During the growing season, spring through summer, the plant may require more frequent watering, while in winter, you should reduce the amount and frequency. Always avoid waterlogging as it can lead to root rot; provide well-draining soil to help manage moisture levels.
LightHart's tongue fern thrives in low to medium indirect light conditions. This fern prefers a spot away from direct sunlight, such as a north-facing window or set back from a window with more exposure. Protecting it from harsh afternoon sun will prevent leaf scorch and maintain the lush, green appearance of its fronds.
TemperatureHart's tongue fern does well in temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit, although it can tolerate a range down to 50 degrees at night. It is not frost-tolerant, so be sure to keep it away from cold drafts and windows during the winter months. The ideal temperature for this plant should be consistent, as fluctuations can lead to stress.
PruningHart's tongue fern typically requires little pruning. Trim away any brown or damaged fronds as needed to keep the plant looking tidy and to encourage healthy growth. The best time for pruning is in the spring, just before new growth starts. Regularly removing spent fronds will allow the plant to direct energy to new, vibrant fronds.
CleaningAs needed
SoilHart's Tongue Fern thrives in a soil mix that is well-draining and rich in organic matter. A mixture of one part garden soil, one part peat or coconut coir, and one part perlite or sand would create the ideal environment. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ideally ranging from 6.0 to 7.0. It is crucial to maintain consistent moisture without allowing the soil to become waterlogged.
RepottingHart's Tongue Fern does not require frequent repotting and can thrive in the same pot for several years. Generally, repotting every 2 to 4 years is sufficient, allowing for fresh soil and space for growth. If the fern shows signs of being root-bound or the soil appears depleted, it may need a new pot one size larger than the current one.
Humidity & MistingHart's Tongue Fern favors high humidity conditions, ideally between 60% to 70%. In dryer indoor environments, periodic misting or a pebble tray with water can help to maintain the necessary humidity levels. Ensuring adequate humidity is especially important in heated or air-conditioned spaces which tend to have drier air.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright, indirect light and high humidity for Hart's Tongue Fern.
Outdoor
Plant in shade, ensure moist soil, and protect from harsh sun.
Hardiness zone
Hart's Tongue Fern is suitable for 5-9 USDA hardiness zones.
Life cycleAsplenium scolopendrium, commonly known as Hart's-tongue fern, starts its life cycle as a spore, which when conditions are right, germinates to form a tiny prothallus (gametophyte). This heart-shaped prothallus is a short-lived, independent stage that houses both male and female reproductive organs (antheridia and archegonia, respectively). When mature, the prothallus produces sperm which swims to fertilize the egg in the archegonium, leading to the formation of a zygote. The zygote grows into a new sporophyte fern, initially as a small fiddlehead that unfurls its fronds as it matures. The mature fern then develops sori, clusters of sporangia, on the undersides of its fronds, where meiosis takes place producing new spores. This cycle repeats as spores are released into the environment to find suitable conditions to germinate and start the life cycle anew.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method for propagating the Hart's Tongue Fern (Asplenium scolopendrium) involves its spores. Typically, spore propagation is done in late summer when the spores are ripe. The ripe spores can be collected by cutting the fertile fronds and placing them inside a paper bag. These spores are then sprinkled onto the surface of a sterilized, damp propagation mix. The mix should be kept moist and in a warm area with indirect light. It’s important to maintain a high level of humidity, which can be achieved by covering the pot with a plastic bag or placing it in a propagator. After a few weeks or months, the spores will germinate and develop into prothalli, and eventually, small ferns will emerge.
