General Culture:
Best grown in gritty, humusy, dry to medium moisture, well-drained soils in part shade. Prefers rocky locations. Tolerates full shade. Avoid overwatering. Needs excellent drainage to minimize risk of crown rot. Tolerates some drought.
Noteworthy Characteristics:
Ebony spleenwort is an evergreen Missouri native fern which typically grows to 15" tall and occurs on rocky wooded ledges, rocky slopes and mossy banks. Arching, pinnate, somewhat glossy, dark green sterile fronds. Erect fertile fronds. Central stipe (stem) is dark purplish brown. Common name of spleenwort refers to purported medicinal value once attributed to the plant.
Problems: Click for detailed list of pests and problems.
No serious insect or disease problems. Crown rot can be a significant problem in poorly drained soils. Susceptible to slugs.
Uses:
Plant in dryish, rocky, shady areas of rock gardens (will grow in rocky crevices), native plant gardens or woodland areas.
© Missouri Botanical
Garden, 2001-2010
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