Adder's-tongue
Ophioglossum vulgatum
Last reviewed: July 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
4"–12" H × 2"–6" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 29 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Adder's-tongue is a small, unusual native fern with a single leaf and distinctive spore-bearing spike. This uncommon woodland species grows slowly in moist, shaded areas and often goes dormant by midsummer. It's more of a botanical curiosity than a typical landscape plant.
In an HOA neighborhood
Adder's-tongue takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Disappears completely when dormant
- Too small and inconspicuous for most landscaping
- Can look like weeds or be mistaken for dying plants
Wildlife value
This fern provides minimal direct wildlife value as it doesn't flower or produce nectar for pollinators. It may offer some habitat for small soil invertebrates in woodland settings.
Common questions
- How much sun does Adder's-tongue need?
- Adder's-tongue grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Adder's-tongue bloom?
- Adder's-tongue blooms in May, June, and July.
- Where is Adder's-tongue native?
- Adder's-tongue (Ophioglossum vulgatum) is native to AL, AR, CT, DE and 29 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Adder's-tongue HOA-friendly?
- Adder's-tongue takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Adder's-tongue? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz