Branching Spleenwort Asplenium fontanum
ABOUT
Asplenium fontanum, commonly known as the smooth rock spleenwort, is a type of fern characterized by its lush green appearance and distinctive features that make it recognizable. This plant typically grows in tufts, creating a dense cluster of fronds. The fronds themselves are narrow and lance-shaped, tapering towards both the tip and the base, with a slightly undulated or wavy edge that can add to its ornamental appeal. The leaves of the smooth rock spleenwort are composed of a central stalk, called a stipe, which is glossy and may have a dark brown to blackish color, providing a striking contrast against the green foliage. The leafy part, or blade, is divided into smaller leaflets known as pinnae, which are arranged on either side of the central rachis (the main axis of the blade), resembling a feather pattern. These pinnae are often arranged in a somewhat overlapping fashion, giving a sense of fullness to the frond. Each pinna has a clean-cut margin without any teeth or lobes, contributing to the 'smooth' aspect of its common name. The veins in the pinnae are usually not very prominent, but they branch out delicately from the central rachis, creating a subtle texture on the leaf surface. This spleenwort offers a deep, rich green color, with each frond contributing to an overall velvety texture, which is most apparent in well-hydrated and healthy specimens. It's worth noting that the plant does not flower or bear any seed, as it reproduces by spores. These spores are born in small structures on the underside of the pinnae, often arranged in rows or clusters, but they are only noticeable upon close inspection. The elegance of the smooth rock spleenwort lies in its simple yet attractive structure, robust green color, and the way its fronds elegantly unfurl from the center of the plant, creating a serene and somewhat sculptural presence wherever it grows. It is a plant that adds a touch of timeless grace to its surroundings.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Aspleniaceae.
Synonyms
Branching Spleenwort, Smooth Rock Spleenwort, Fon's Spleenwort.
Common names
Asplenium fontanum subsp. fontanum, Asplenium alpinum var. fontanum, Asplenium cuneifolium Viv., Asplenium fontanum var. cuneifolium, Asplenium septentrionale var. fontanum, Asplenium septentrionale subsp. fontanum, Asplenium fontanum var. prenjae, Asplenium prenjae, Asplenium fissum, Asplenium fontanum var. fissum, Asplenium cuneifolium Viv.
ToxicityTo humans
Asplenium fontanum, commonly known as Branching Spleenwort, is not known to be toxic to humans. Ingesting this fern should not cause poisoning or adverse health effects based on the available information. It is always advisable to avoid ingesting plants that are not typically considered food items, as they could potentially cause gastrointestinal discomfort or allergic reactions in some individuals.
To pets
Branching Spleenwort is not known to be toxic to pets. It is not typically associated with poisoning in animals, so ingestion of this plant should not cause any significant symptoms or long-term consequences. However, as with humans, pets may sometimes experience mild stomach upset if they consume non-food plants, so it is best to keep an eye on your pets and prevent them from eating ornamental plants.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Height
1 foot (30 cm)
Spread
1 foot (30 cm)
Plant type
Fern
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ecosystem support: Asplenium fontanum, also known as the common spleenwort, provides habitat and nourishment for various invertebrates and can be a food source for some herbivorous animals.
- Biodiversity promoter: By growing in various habitats, common spleenwort can contribute to increased plant diversity, which can in turn support a wider range of animal species.
- Erosion control: The root system of Asplenium fontanum helps to stabilize soil and can reduce the likelihood of soil erosion in the environments where it naturally occurs.
- Aesthetic value: With its delicate fronds and greenery, common spleenwort adds natural beauty to gardens and can be used in shade gardens or woodland settings for ornamental purposes.
- Educational interest: Asplenium fontanum can be an interesting specimen for botanical study due to its unique features and reproduction through spores, offering educational value for both amateurs and professionals in botany.
- Habitat diversification: In natural settings, the presence of common spleenwort can contribute to the creation of microhabitats that offer niches for various organisms, enriching the overall ecosystem.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Asplenium fontanum, commonly known as branch-fern, can be used as a natural dye source, providing various shades of green and yellow depending on the mordant used during the dyeing process.
- Branch-fern can be incorporated into terrariums or fairy gardens for aesthetic diversity and to create a mini forest-like environment.
- The fronds of branch-fern are sometimes used in art for imprinting patterns on paper or fabric, offering a unique and organic design element.
- Branch-fern can be used in the educational context, to help teach botany and plant physiology, especially the reproduction system of ferns.
- Enthusiasts of model-making, such as miniature landscapes or dioramas, can use dried branch-fern fronds to simulate trees and other foliage to add realism to their creations.
- During nature-themed workshops, branch-fern can be employed as a tool to learn about spore printing, allowing people to capture the spore patterns on paper.
- Branch-fern can serve as a food source for some invertebrates and therefore can be included in invertebrate habitats to support biodiversity.
- In photography, branch-fern's unique frond architecture can be used as a subject or a backdrop to create compelling compositions highlighting natural patterns.
- Crafters may use the delicate fronds of branch-fern to create natural jewelry, such as pendants or earrings, often encapsulated in resin.
- Branch-fern can be used as an indicator species in certain ecosystems to monitor environmental conditions such as humidity, air quality, and soil pH.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Branching Fern is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Branching Fern is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Asplenium fontanum, commonly known as the Branching Spleenwort, often grows on rocky surfaces and in challenging environments, symbolizing the ability to endure and adapt to difficult conditions.
- Healing: Historically, spleenworts including Asplenium fontanum were believed to possess medicinal properties, especially for spleen ailments, making them represent healing and wellness.
- Longevity: Being a fern that can live for many years in the wild, the Branching Spleenwort represents longevity and the passage of time.
- Protection: Ferns like Asplenium fontanum often create microhabitats for small insects and fauna, which gives it the symbolic meaning of shelter and protection.
- Purity: With its preference for clean, moist air and its ability to grow in unpolluted areas, the Branching Spleenwort can also symbolize purity and the importance of a clean environment.
WaterThe Branching Fern should be watered evenly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant once a week with approximately 8-16 ounces of water, depending on the size of the pot and the environmental conditions. It's important not to let the soil dry out completely, but also to ensure that the pot has good drainage to prevent root rot. During the growing season, in spring and summer, you may need to increase watering frequency, while in the fall and winter, water less often as the plant's growth slows down.
LightThe Branching Fern thrives best in bright, indirect light, making it well-suited for a north-facing window or a spot that receives filtered sunlight. Direct sunlight should be avoided as it can scorch the delicate fronds. The ideal lighting condition is dappled sunlight similar to the plant's natural forest floor habitat.
TemperatureThe Branching Fern prefers temperate conditions and does well in a temperature range between 60°F and 75°F. It can tolerate a minimum temperature of around 50°F but should be protected from sudden cold drafts. The ideal temperature for this fern is a consistent 70°F, providing a stable environment that mimics its natural understory habitat in forests.
PruningPruning the Branching Fern is generally done to remove dead or damaged fronds, which helps maintain its appearance and health. Prune as needed, cutting back any unsightly fronds to the base of the plant. The best time for pruning is during the growing season, though minimal pruning can be done at any time of year.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Asplenium fontanum, commonly known as the Branching Asplenium, should be well-draining and rich in organic matter. A mix of one part garden soil, one part peat, and one part perlite or coarse sand is ideal. This fern prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH, aiming for a pH range between 6.0 and 7.0 to support healthy growth.
RepottingBranching Asplenium does not require frequent repotting and can be done every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current pot. It's important to handle their delicate roots carefully during repotting to prevent damage.
Humidity & MistingBranching Asplenium thrives in high humidity conditions, preferably between 60% to 70%, to mimic their natural habitat.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Branching Asplenium in indirect light, ensure high humidity, and avoid drafts.
Outdoor
Grow Branching Asplenium in shade, protect from direct sun and heavy frost.
Hardiness zone
6-9 USDA
Life cycleAsplenium fontanum, commonly known as the smooth rock spleenwort, begins its life cycle with spore germination on a suitable damp and shady rock surface or crevice. The spores grow into a small, heart-shaped gametophyte called a prothallus, which carries both male and female reproductive organs. Fertilization occurs when sperm from the antheridia swims to the archegonia in the presence of water, leading to the development of a new sporophyte. The young sporophyte emerges from the gametophyte and starts to form fronds, characteristic of adult ferns. Over time, the plant matures and develops sori on the undersides of its fronds, which are clusters of sporangia that produce and release new spores, thus completing the life cycle. The smooth rock spleenwort thrives in its mature form, contributing to the ecosystem as a member of the understory flora until it eventually dies, leaving its spores to propagate the next generation.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Asplenium fontanum, commonly known as the branch fern, is typically propagated through spores. This method is favored due to the absence of flowers or seeds on these plants. Spore propagation usually takes place in late summer when the spores are mature. To propagate the branch fern by spores, one needs to collect the spore-laden fronds when they are dry. The spores are then scattered on the surface of a moist, sterile potting mix ideally maintained at a temperature of about 70°F (21°C) and kept out of direct sunlight. The container must be covered with a plastic wrap to maintain humidity until germination occurs, which can take a few weeks to several months. Once the sporelings are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into individual pots.
