Ebony Spleenwort, Asplenium platyneuron

Asplenium platyneuron, commonly known as ebony spleenwort, is a small native evergreen fern valued for its upright, finely textured fronds and distinctive dark brown to purplish stems. Native to eastern North America, this adaptable fern thrives in rocky woodlands, slopes, and disturbed sites, making it an excellent choice for naturalistic and low-maintenance shade plantings.

Key Features:

• Native evergreen fern with upright fertile fronds and low, spreading sterile fronds

• Distinctive dark brown to purplish central stem (stipe) gives the plant its common name

• Highly adaptable to rocky soils, woodland edges, and dry to medium moisture conditions

• Dimorphic fronds: fertile fronds are erect and deciduous; sterile fronds are evergreen

• Spreads by spores and small vegetative buds that can form new plants

• Excellent for rock gardens, woodland gardens, and shaded crevices

Plant Details:
Height: 8–18 in | Spread: 8–12 in
Light: Partial shade to full shade (tolerates some sun)
Soil: Well-drained, rocky or humus-rich soils; dry to medium moisture; prefers acidic conditions
Zones: 3–8