Ebony Spleenwort
Asplenium platyneuron
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
6"–24" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
N/A
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CO and 34 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Ebony spleenwort is a small, elegant native fern with dark, glossy stems and delicate evergreen fronds. This compact fern forms neat clumps that stay attractive year-round in shaded areas. It thrives in partial shade with moderate moisture and requires minimal care once established.
In an HOA neighborhood
Ebony Spleenwort is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, mid zone.
Wildlife value
As a fern, this plant does not attract pollinators but provides habitat structure for small insects and wildlife. The evergreen fronds offer year-round shelter for beneficial insects in shaded garden areas.
Common questions
- How much sun does Ebony Spleenwort need?
- Ebony Spleenwort grows best in part shade conditions.
- Where is Ebony Spleenwort native?
- Ebony Spleenwort (Asplenium platyneuron) is native to AL, AR, AZ, CO and 34 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Ebony Spleenwort HOA-friendly?
- Ebony Spleenwort is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
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 Ebony Spleenwort? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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