Species Maidenhair Spleenwort
green leaves and brown stems

Maidenhair Spleenwort

Asplenium trichomanes subsp. quadrivalens

Also Known As - Limestone Maidenhair Spleenwort
Maidenhair Spleenwort (Asplenium trichomanes subsp. quadrivalens) is a fern species native to North America. It is a small, low-growing plant, typically reaching heights of 4-8 inches tall. The fronds are dark green and are divided into linear, fan-shaped leaflets. It can typically be found in moist rock crevices, riverbanks, or in wooded areas. It is great at purifying indoor air and is an excellent choice for terrariums or indoor hanging pots. It prefers indirect sunlight and well-draining, moist soil. In the wild, it is considered an indicator species for areas of old growth forest or seeps, meaning it is a sign of moderate to high biological diversity.

Watering:

Minimal

Propagation:

Division,Cutting,Layering Propagation,Spore Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

part shade,full shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Maidenhair Spleenwort should be watered once or twice a week with enough water to keep the soil moist, but not soggy. When the top inch of the soil becomes dry to the touch, water enough to moisten it but not enough to cause runoff. This should be done throughout the growing season. In the winter months, the plant should be watered less, no more than once every 2 to 3 weeks. At this time, it is important not to overwater the plant as it can lead to root rot.

sunlight

Maidenhair Spleenwort requires bright, indirect sunlight for optimal growth. This plant species prefers north- or east-facing windows with dappled light that allows it to receive about 3 to 4 hours of sunlight per day. The light should be constant, but as this species does not tolerate strong direct light, it should not be placed in direct sunlight or in an area that receives too much direct sunlight. Maidenhair Spleenwort does best when the intensity of the light is moderate. During its active growth period, try to give it as much light as possible, without putting it in full sun.

pruning

Maidenhair Spleenwort plants should be pruned lightly throughout the growing season. Prune the tips of young plants in the spring when they are actively growing and the leaves are a few inches long. This will help promote bushier growth. Older plants can be pruned back in the late summer or fall when growth has slowed down in order to create a compact, attractive shape. It’s also helpful to regularly remove any dead or yellow leaves throughout the growing season.