Weeping Spleenwort
Asplenium flaccidum · Aspleniaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant weeping spleenwort: 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
- 30 to 60 cm in height
- Growth
- Moderate
- Hardiness
- Non-hardy (minimum 5 to 15 °C)
- Origin
- New Zealand and Pacific regions
- Soil type
- Moist, well-draining, rich in organic matter
Care
Watering
Keep the substrate consistently moist without waterlogging it. Water regularly, approximately 2 to 3 times per week depending on the season and ambient humidity. Prefer soft, non-chalky water. In winter, reduce watering slightly while avoiding drying out.
Light and exposure
Place this fern in indirect light, away from direct sun rays that would scorch the foliage. It appreciates partially shaded areas, reminiscent of its natural woodland habitat. A north or east-facing exposure works perfectly.
Substrate and drainage
Use light, aerated potting mix, ideally enriched with peat or leaf mould. Drainage must be excellent to prevent root suffocation. You can add perlite or fine bark to improve structure.
Pruning and cleaning
Regularly remove yellowed or damaged fronds at the base using clean scissors. This fern develops naturally and does not require structural pruning. Gentle cleaning of the foliage with a damp cloth maintains its vigour.
Fertiliser
Apply a low-nitrogen, potassium-rich fertiliser, diluted to half strength, once a month during active growth (spring-summer). Ferns are not heavy feeders: moderate application is sufficient. Stop all feeding in autumn and winter.
Pests and diseases
Watch for spider mites and scale insects, favoured by overly dry conditions. Increase humidity and mist the foliage regularly. With excessive stagnant moisture, root rot can occur.
Did you know?
Asplenium flaccidum, native to New Zealand, is a fern remarkably suited to epiphytic life in its natural environment, meaning it grows on other plants without parasitising them. Its name 'flaccidum' means 'soft' or 'drooping' in Latin, evoking the grace of its supple, slightly pendulous fronds that give it a decorative charm highly prized in indoor cultivation.
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
- Asplenium ceterachAsplenium ceterach
- Green spleenwortAsplenium viride
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.