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.
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.
Does Ebony Spleenwort fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.