Asplenium trichomanes
Dainty fern whose fronds form rosettes on cliffs and boulders
Asplenium trichomanes maidenhair spleenwort
Overwintering perennial fern that grows in dense rosettes on cliffs and boulders. The species name 'trichomanes' comes from Greek 'tangled mass of hair' referring to the tangle of dark stems that go together with the floret.
The trailing sterile fronds emerge first, then fertile fronds come in a bit later and are more erect. This fern is the easiest of all Spleenworts to grow in a garden.
Habitat & Range
Usually grows on limestone or non-calcerous rocks, prefers rock crevices. Prefers neutral to moderately acidic soil.
Range is from Nova Scotia to Minnesota, PA, and south to Louisiana, Mississippi, Texas, and northern California.
| EMP: | FAC |
|---|---|
| NCNE: | UPL |
Characteristics
Sterile fronds prostrate; Fertile fronds sprout later, fresh and bright-green.
Both grow in clusters, are ovally-shaped, once pinnate and overwinter.
Rhizome short, erect or ascending, with dark brown scales
Rachis dark, attached by a narrow point, toothed.
Sori short, oblong, 3 to 6 on each side of midrib, indusium delicate.
Pinnae opposite, short, smaller toward tip of blade.
Plant Codes
S-rank: No rank
G-rank: G5 (Secure)
Asplenium trichomanes maidenhair spleenwort
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