Share

Maidenhair Spleenwort

©Tom Marshall

Maidenhair spleenwort

A small, tufted fern, maidenhair spleenwort can be found growing out of crevices between rocks, in walls and on mossy branches across the UK.

Scientific name

Asplenium trichomanes

When to see

January to December

Species information

Statistics

Height: 15cm
Common.

About

Maidenhair spleenwort is a small fern that can be found growing in tufts on rocks, old walls and mossy branches. This pretty fern is ideal for gardens - plant it in sloping rockeries, crevices or walls for attractive cover all year-round. It spreads by means of spores, so new 'crowns' should establish themselves naturally.

How to identify

An easily recognisable fern, maidenhair spleenwort has long fronds made up of short, round leaflets paired from a central black stem.

Distribution

Widespread.

Did you know?

Maidenhair spleenwort occurs right round the world, from Tasmania to Turkey!