Blackstem Spleenwort

(Asplenium resiliens)

Blackstem Spleenwort (Asplenium resiliens)

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Climate Requirements

Precipitation 16" - 58"
High Temp. 77°F - 94°F
Low Temp. 24°F - 43°F

Summary

Asplenium resiliens, commonly known as blackstem spleenwort or little ebony spleenwort, is a perennial herbaceous fern native to rocky slopes, limestone outcrops, and shaded canyons in the southeastern United States, Mexico, as well as parts of Central and South America. It is characterized by its distinctive purplish-black stipe (stem) and rachis (central fern axis), with pinnate fronds that grow in erect tufts, forming dense clumps. The fronds vary in size from 3 to 45 centimeters (1.2 to 18 inches) long and from 0.5 to 2.5 centimeters (0.20 to 0.98 inches) wide, with a linear blade shape that may be slightly wider below the tip or just above the base.

This fern is appreciated for its resilience and adaptability, making it a suitable choice for shaded rock gardens, ferneries, and woodland plantings. It is cold-tolerant to USDA hardiness zone 6 and prefers moist conditions. Blackstem spleenwort thrives in part shade, requiring well-draining soils with a neutral to alkaline pH, often found in a basic potting mix. While it is not prone to many diseases, it can suffer from root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly draining soils.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Fern
  • Height: 0.7-0.8 feet
  • Width: 0.8-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Non-Flowering
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Part Shade
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rock Garden

Natural Habitat

native to rocky slopes, limestone outcrops, and shaded canyons in the southeastern United States, Mexico, as well as parts of Central and South America

Other Names

Common Names: Little Ebony Spleenwort

Scientific Names: Asplenium resiliens, Asplenium parvulum, Asplenium lealii, Asplenium trichomanes subsp. anceps, Chamaefilix resiliens

GBIF Accepted Name: Asplenium resiliens Kunze