Ebony Spleenwort

Light Needs

Full Shade to Partial Shade

(0 - 4 Hours Of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

6-18 Inches

Mature Spread

6-18 Inches

Growing Zones

3 to 8

With its short yet attractive fronds, the Ebony Spleenwort is perfect for a dry and shady spot. Named after its stems that turn black as they mature, it develops dark green pinnate fronds that grow out from its center. Remaining compact, the Asplenium platyneuron as it is also known, has a variety of uses for ground cover, edging walkways, or mass planting. 

The Ebony Spleenwort is considered low maintenance, as once established, it requires minimal ongoing care. Semi-evergreen, new fronds emerge in spring. Generally, pest and disease-free, when given the right conditions it is easy to grow. Often used for shaded woodland areas or rock gardens.

Ebony Spleenwort Care

The Ebony Spleenwort loves either full or partial shade. When it comes to its soil preference, it likes a dry and free-draining soil and has no pH requirements. Areas prone to flooding or standing water should be avoided as it hates a poorly drained substrate. Frequent watering is needed to help it establish, and then only during hot and dry spells.

The Ebony Spleenwort needs minimal pruning. However, you can remove any brown or dead fronds throughout the year. New plants can be produced through division in early spring.

Ebony Spleenwort Spacing

The Ebony Spleenwort tends to grow to around 6 to 12 inches tall and wide. If planting out in a row, space plants 6 to 12 inches for best growth and coverage.