Maidenhair Spleenwort

Scientific Name: 
Asplenium trichomanes

Maidenhair Spleenwort is a small fern that can be found growing in tufts on rocks, old walls and mossy branches. This pretty fern is ideal for gardens; plant it in sloping rockeries, crevices or walls for attractive cover all year-round. It spreads by means of spores, so new crowns should establish themselves naturally.

How to identify: 
An easily recognisable fern, Maidenhair Spleenwort has long fronds made up of short, round leaflets paired from the central black stem.
Where to find it: 
Widespread.
How people can help: 

Our gardens are a vital resource for local wildlife, providing corridors of green space between open countryside, allowing species to move about. In fact, the UK's gardens provide more space for nature than all the National Nature Reserves put together. So why not try planting native plants and trees to encourage birds, mammals and invertebrates into your backyard? To find out more about wildlife-friendly gardening, visit our Wild About Gardens website: a joint initiative with the RHS, there's plenty of facts and tips to get you started.

Statistics: 
Frond length: up to 15cm
Conservation status: 
Common.
Did you know?: 
Maidenhair Spleenwort occurs right round the world, from Tasmania to Turkey!
Seasons: 
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter
When to see
Start date: 
January
End date: 
December
Image: 
Maidenhair spleenwort - Tom Marshall