Black spleenwort - Asplenium adiantum-nigrum

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Black spleenwort - Asplenium adiantum-nigrum
© Dr Chris Gibson/English Nature

A widespread and very attractive fern found in rock crevices, walls and stony banks, black spleenwort is locally abundant in the west of the country and can be found on walls throughout England, including towns and cities. The fronds are triangular in shape and divided into 15 or more leaflets, arranged alternately along a dark purple-black midrib. New fronds appear from June and can grow up to 50cm in length and remain green for over a year. Black spleenwort needs damp conditions at first but once established can tolerate dry conditions eg in a rockery or wall.

The vine weevil, a major pest, sometimes nibbles the leaf edges but few ferns have many insect associations. Some ground beetles may be found in the foliage litter at the base of the plant and ladybirds may shelter in the fronds.

Animals

Beetles, Ladybirds, Weevils

Foliage	Green
Flower	,
Moisture	(Dry)
Sunlight	(Part-shade)
Origin	Native