Asplenium ceterach
Asplenium ceterach · Aspleniaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant asplenium ceterach: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Plant type
- Fern
- Adult size
- 15 to 30 cm in height
- Growth
- Slow
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to -15°C)
- Origin
- Europe, Western Asia, North Africa
- Soil type
- Well-draining, rich in organic matter
Care
Watering
Keep the substrate moist but never waterlogged, especially during the growing season. In winter, reduce watering but don't let the soil dry out completely. Preferably use soft water or rainwater, as this fern dislikes lime.
Light
Place it in partial shade or under indirect light. It appreciates cool, humid locations away from direct sunlight that would scorch its delicate foliage.
Soil and substrate
Plant it in a mixture rich in organic matter, porous and well-draining, ideally composed of peat, potting soil and perlite. A slightly acidic to neutral pH is preferred.
Pruning and cleaning
Regularly remove dead or damaged fronds at the base to encourage growth. Gently clean the foliage with a soft damp cloth to prevent dust accumulation.
Fertilizer
Apply a balanced, highly diluted fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer), every three to four months. Avoid overdosing as this could burn the delicate roots.
Diseases and pests
Watch for mealybugs or spider mites in overly dry conditions. Improve air humidity through regular misting and ensure good ventilation to prevent fungal diseases.
Did you know?
The Ceterach has been renowned since antiquity for its traditional emollient properties: the Greeks and Romans used it in folk medicine. Its name comes from the Arabic 'shitraj', and in the Middle Ages it was cultivated in monastery gardens for its supposed virtues against lung ailments, although these uses have not been scientifically proven.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Maidenhair spleenwortAsplenium trichomanes
- Hart's-tongue fernAsplenium scolopendrium
- Wall rueAsplenium ruta-muraria
- Black spleenwortAsplenium adiantum-nigrum
- Green spleenwortAsplenium viride
- Asplenium quadrivalensAsplenium quadrivalens
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.