Northern Adderstongue
Ophioglossum pusillum
Last reviewed: July 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
2"–6" H × 1"–3" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
CA, CT, DE, IA and 26 more states
Northern adderstongue is a tiny, uncommon native fern that grows just a few inches tall in shaded woodland areas. This diminutive plant produces a single small leaf and a distinctive spore-bearing stalk that resembles a small tongue or spike.
In an HOA neighborhood
Northern Adderstongue 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.
- Extremely small and easily overlooked
- May appear as weeds or bare spots
- Very uncommon and unfamiliar to most people
Wildlife value
As a fern, this species does not attract pollinators but may provide minor habitat value for small woodland creatures and soil invertebrates.
Common questions
- How much sun does Northern Adderstongue need?
- Northern Adderstongue grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Northern Adderstongue bloom?
- Northern Adderstongue blooms in May, June, and July.
- Where is Northern Adderstongue native?
- Northern Adderstongue (Ophioglossum pusillum) is native to CA, CT, DE, IA and 26 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Northern Adderstongue HOA-friendly?
- Northern Adderstongue 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 Northern Adderstongue? 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