perennial

Hart's Tongue Fern

Asplenium scolopendrium 'Cristatum'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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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

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.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

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.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

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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 Trillium Foamflower Japanese painted fern

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Hart's Tongue Fern questions

What zones can Hart's Tongue Fern grow in?

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 Hart's Tongue Fern deer resistant?

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

When does Hart's Tongue Fern bloom?

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 Hart's Tongue Fern need full sun?

Hart's Tongue Fern does best in part shade.