Black Spleenwort
Asplenium adiantum-nigrum
Adiantum-nigrum
About this plant
Asplenium adiantum-nigrum, commonly known as Black Spleenwort, is a small fern with delicate, dark green fronds that have a lacy appearance. It is appreciated for its elegant foliage and is often used as an ornamental plant indoors or in shaded garden areas. This fern thrives in moist, shaded environments and adds a touch of greenery to spaces with low light.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Asplenium
- Family
- Aspleniaceae
- Higher classification
- Polypodiopsida (ferns)
- Plant type
- Houseplant
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Europe, North Africa, Asia
- Distribution
- Native to Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia; cultivated in gardens and indoors worldwide.
Care
- Light preference
- Shade
- Suitable locations
- Indoor, Outdoor, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- North-facing, Northeast-facing, East-facing, Northwest-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 2–5 days
- Humidity
- High
- Minimum
- 10 °C
- Maximum
- 24 °C
- Optimal
- 15-22 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 7-10
- Soil pH
- 5.5-6.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Soil type
- well-draining, rich organic soil
Watering. Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Increase humidity by misting leaves regularly.
Fertilizing. Feed the plant with a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid over-fertilizing, which can harm the roots.
This fern prefers shady, humid environments and well-draining soil. It needs regular watering to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Avoid direct sunlight, which can damage its delicate leaves. It is moderately easy to care for but requires consistent moisture and humidity.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Division, Cuttings
- Care difficulty
- Medium
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- No
Delicate, dark green, lacy fronds with a graceful arching form.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Non-toxic to humans and pets, safe to keep around children and animals.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Skin contact, Sap or latex
- Pollen level
- None
Asplenium adiantum-nigrum is generally safe for people with allergies. It does not produce airborne pollen that typically causes allergic reactions. However, some individuals might be sensitive to the plant's sap or skin contact, so it's best to handle it gently if you have sensitive skin.
Common problems
Overwatering can cause root rot, while too little humidity may lead to browning leaf edges. Low light can slow growth, and pests like scale or aphids may occasionally appear.
Uses
Primarily grown as an ornamental houseplant or garden fern for shaded areas. It helps purify indoor air and adds aesthetic appeal.
Notes
Prune dead or yellowing fronds to encourage healthy growth. Repot every 2-3 years to refresh soil and provide space for roots. Sensitive to direct sunlight and dry air, so maintain humidity with misting or a humidity tray.