Species

Asplenium scolopendriumHart's Tongue Fern

2 other cultivars

perennial

Cristatum Hart's Tongue Fern

Asplenium scolopendrium 'Cristatum'

The Story

Plant Bio

Asplenium scolopendrium, the Hart's-tongue fern, is an evergreen fern with distinctive, undivided, strap-shaped, bright green fronds that form a shuttlecock-like clump.

The 'Cristatum' group features fronds with crested, ruffled, or forked tips, adding an unusual and highly ornamental texture to shade gardens.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides lush, evergreen foliage that adds texture and color to shaded gardens.

Thrives in low-light conditions, reducing the need for supplemental lighting.

Supports shade-loving insects and provides habitat in woodland settings.

SpeciesAsplenium scolopendriumHart's Tongue Fern

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

18 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Europe and Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Late spring

In flower about 1 month of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck spores or division into well-draining, humus-rich soil
Keep soil consistently moist for best growth
Place in partial to full shade for optimal health
Water regularly, especially during dry periods
Mulch around base to retain moisture
Divide every 3-4 years in early spring

Pro Tip

Maintain consistently moist soil and provide shade for best growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist
Mulch to conserve moisture
Divide in early spring for propagation
Place in partial to full shade 🌿

Don't

Avoid direct, harsh sunlight ❌
Do not let soil dry out completely
Avoid heavy, waterlogged soils

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Fertilize
Mulch
Pest Check
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland gardenEvergreen borderContainer plant for shaded patio

Companion Plants

Hosta Astilbe TrilliumFoamflower Japanese painted fern

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Cristatum Hart's Tongue Fern questions

What zones can Cristatum Hart's Tongue Fern grow in?

Cristatum Hart's Tongue Fern is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Cristatum Hart's Tongue Fern deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Cristatum Hart's Tongue Fern, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Cristatum Hart's Tongue Fern bloom?

Cristatum Hart's Tongue Fern typically blooms in late spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Cristatum Hart's Tongue Fern need full sun?

Cristatum Hart's Tongue Fern does best in part shade.