Asplenium Scolopendrium - Overview
Asplenium Scolopendrium, also known as Harts Tongue Fern, is a perennial plant species belonging to the Asplenium genus and Aspleniaceae family. It is native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa but has been introduced and naturalized in other parts of the world.
General Appearance
The Harts Tongue Fern is a medium-sized plant that can grow up to 60cm tall and 10cm wide. Its leaves are simple, evergreen, and can be up to 25cm long. The leaves are undivided with a smooth, leathery texture, and are usually oblong or strap-shaped, hence the common name Harts Tongue. The leaves of this plant are typically dark green, with a glossy finish, and have well-defined veins running through them.
Common Names
Aside from Harts Tongue Fern, Asplenium Scolopendrium has other common names such as Buckler Fern, Trail of Maidens Hair, Langue-de-cerf, and Eberfarne.
Uses
The Harts Tongue Fern has been used for several medicinal purposes throughout history. It was believed to be effective in treating ailments such as sore throat, urinary tract infections, and as a natural diuretic. Nowadays, the plant is mainly used as an ornamental plant in gardens and indoor spaces. Its unique shape and glossy leaves make it an attractive plant to grow, especially in shaded areas.
Light Requirements
Asplenium scolopendrium, commonly known as the Hart's tongue fern, thrives in areas with moderate to low levels of light. The plant prefers shady and moist environments and cannot tolerate high amounts of direct sunlight. It grows well under the cover of larger trees or in shaded areas of gardens.
Temperature Requirements
The Hart's tongue fern is native to temperate regions of Europe and Asia, and it prefers cooler temperatures ranging between 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit. The plant can withstand temperatures as low as 25 degrees Fahrenheit, but it struggles in hot and dry environments. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure proper ventilation and a moderate temperature range to support optimal growth.
Soil Requirements
Asplenium scolopendrium grows in fertile, well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The plant thrives in moist environments, so the soil must be kept moist but not waterlogged. It is crucial to ensure proper drainage and avoid water stagnation, as the Hart's tongue fern is susceptible to root rot. Adding organic matter to the soil, such as leaf mold or compost, can help provide vital nutrients to the plant and support optimal growth.
Cultivation Methods for Asplenium Scolopendrium
Asplenium Scolopendrium grows well in shaded or partially shaded areas and likes moist and rich soil with proper drainage. It grows well in loamy soil with leaf litters, which can hold moisture, and the pH level of the soil should be between 6.0 to 7.5 for its optimal growth.
Watering Needs for Asplenium Scolopendrium
Asplenium Scolopendrium requires consistent watering, and the soil should be kept moist at all times. It is better to use filtered water as it can reduce the risk of chemicals and salts that might damage the plant. However, be sure not to water it too much as the roots might rot and decay.
Fertilization of Asplenium Scolopendrium
Asplenium Scolopendrium requires minimal fertilization as it doesn't need extra nutrients to grow. However, you can apply organic fertilizers once or twice every year to improve the texture and fertility of the soil. But be careful not to use too much fertilizers as it might burn the roots of the plant and affect its growth.
Pruning Asplenium Scolopendrium
Asplenium Scolopendrium doesn't need pruning as it is a slow-growing fern. However, it is necessary to remove any dead or diseased fronds to maintain the overall health of the plant. You can also trim back any yellow or brown leaves to shape the plant's appearance. Make sure to use sterilized pruning shears to avoid spreading any diseases to the plant.
Propagation of Asplenium scolopendrium
Asplenium scolopendrium, commonly known as hart's tongue fern, can be propagated by spore, division, or rhizome.
Propagation by Spore
To propagate Asplenium scolopendrium by spore, collect spores from mature fronds in the summer. Sow the spores on a mixture of peat and sand in a shallow tray, and place the tray in a cool, shaded spot. Keep the mixture moist and cover with plastic wrap to maintain humidity. The spores will germinate in a few weeks. Once small fronds have developed, they can be transplanted into individual pots filled with a mixture of peat and sand.
Propagation by Division
To propagate Asplenium scolopendrium by division, wait until the plant has formed a dense clump of rhizomes. Carefully lift the plant and separate the rhizomes, making sure each section has healthy rhizomes and fronds. Replant the divided sections in new pots or in suitable positions in the garden.
Propagation by Rhizome
To propagate Asplenium scolopendrium by rhizome, take a healthy rhizome and cut it into sections that have several fronds. Plant the sections into individual pots or suitable locations in the garden and keep them watered. Ensure that the rhizome is planted upright and covered with soil, and that the fronds are not buried. The new plants will grow from the rhizome sections.
Disease and Pest Management for Asplenium Scolopendrium Plants
Asplenium scolopendrium, a fern commonly known as the Hart's Tongue fern, is a hardy and easy to grow plant. However, like all plants, it is susceptible to diseases and pest attacks. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and suggestions on how to manage them:
Diseases
1. Rusts: Rusts are a common fungal disease that affects the leaves of Hart's Tongue ferns. They show up as yellow or brown spots on the leaves that later turn into rusty brown spores. To manage rusts, prune and dispose of the infected leaves. Also, avoid watering the plant from above to prevent the spores from spreading.
2. Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is another fungal disease that causes brown or black spots on the leaves of the fern. To manage leaf spot, prune and dispose of the infected leaves and avoid watering the plant from above.
3. Root Rot: Root rot is a common issue caused by overwatering the plant, leading to damage to the roots. To prevent root rot, ensure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering the plant. If the plant is already infected, remove it from the soil, trim the affected roots and repot it in fresh, well-draining soil.
Pests
1. Spider Mites: Spider Mites are tiny pests that suck the sap out of the plant, causing yellowing and eventually death of the leaves. To manage spider mites, wipe the leaves using a damp cloth and spray the plant with a soap solution or horticultural oil.
2. Mealybugs: Mealybugs are white, soft-bodied pests that suck the sap from the plant, leading to stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. To manage mealybugs, wipe the leaves using a damp cloth and spray the plant with a horticultural oil or soap solution. You can also use sticky traps to trap them.
3. Slugs and Snails: Slugs and snails feed on the leaves of the plant, causing large irregular holes and damage to the plant. To manage these pests, handpick them off the plant when you see them, or use slug baits to control their population.
Giving your Asplenium scolopendrium plant proper care, including watering it properly, keeping it in suitable lighting and humidity conditions can help keep it healthy and prevent diseases and pests.
