Green Spleenwort

(Asplenium viride)

Green Spleenwort (Asplenium viride)

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Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Climate Requirements

Precipitation 39" - 47"
High Temp. 58°F - 74°F
Low Temp. 9°F - 31°F
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Summary

Asplenium viride, commonly known as Green Spleenwort, is a small, evergreen fern native to montane regions, rocky slopes, and crevices of calcareous substrates in the Northern Hemisphere. It typically grows to a modest size, with fronds reaching up to 10-20 cm in length. The fern is characterized by its bright green stipes (the fern equivalent of a stem) and rachides (the central axis of the fern frond), which contrast with the darker green of the leaflets. The fronds emerge in a tufted fashion, giving the plant a delicate and textured appearance. Green Spleenwort flowers are inconspicuous, as ferns reproduce via spores rather than flowers.

Green Spleenwort is valued for its hardiness and its ability to grow in challenging environments, such as on rocky outcrops and in alpine garden settings. It is often used in rock gardens, as a crevice plant, and in areas where other plants may struggle to establish. It requires minimal maintenance once established, thriving in part shade to full shade conditions, and prefers consistently moist, well-drained soils with a high lime content. While it is not prone to many diseases, it can suffer from root rot if the soil is too wet. This species is not typically invasive but can spread in suitable habitats. It is important to note that Green Spleenwort does not tolerate drought or prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Ferns
  • Height: 0.3-0.5 feet
  • Width: 0.3-0.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season:
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Part Shade, Full Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Border Plant, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden

Natural Habitat

Montane regions, rocky slopes, and crevices of calcareous substrates

Other Names

Common Names:

Scientific Names: Asplenium viride , Asplenium intermedium , Asplenium ramosum , Asplenium ramosum , Asplenium trichomanes-ramosum , Asplenium umbrosum , Asplenium viride f. incisum , Asplenium viride subsp. incisum , Asplenium viride var. alpinum , Asplenium viride var. incisum

GBIF Accepted Name: Asplenium viride