Asplenium platyneuron (Ebony spleenwort) Unity Grown

Asplenium platyneuron (Ebony spleenwort) is a low maintenance semi-evergreen fern native to the eastern half of the United States as well as South Africa. Asplenium platyneuron grows well in a wide range of soil types and conditions with fronds ranging from 2-24" in length. Unlike some other ferns, ebony spleenwort can even tolerate short periods of drought and higher levels of sunlight.

"Ebony" in the name "ebony spleenwort" is derived from the plant's central stem which turns shiny and black with age, and the "spleenwort" refers to the historical belief that these plants had medicinal value to treating ailments of the spleen. Whether this belief was ever true is iffy, but other aspects of ebony spleenwort's behavior are far less questionable: Asplenium platyneuron is extremely tolerant of even deep shade as well as deer browsing, and is an ideal choice for shady rock gardens, woodland locations, and a variety of other home landscaping uses.