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Asplenium adiantum-nigrum Black spleenwort Evergreen fern (1 Page of 5) The Asplenium adiantum-nigrum plant species is found in Britain. It is a member of the Polypodiaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Black spleenwort. Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses Latin Name: Asplenium adiantum-nigrum Common Name: Black spleenwort Family: Polypodiaceae Author: L. Known Hazards: Although we have found no reports of toxicity for this species, a number of ferns contain carcinogens so some caution is advisable[200].
Many ferns also contain thiaminase, an enzyme that robs the body of its vitamin B complex. In small quantities this enzyme will do no harm to people eating an adequate diet that is rich in vitamin B, though large quantities can cause severe health problems. The enzyme is destroyed by heat or thorough drying, so cooking the plant will remove the thiaminase[172]. Mature Height: 0.5 Mature Width: Habitat: Rocky woods, hedgebanks, shady walls and rocks[17].
Propagation Notes: Spores - best sown as soon as they are ripe on the surface of a humus-rich sterilized soil. Keep the compost moist, preferably by putting a plastic bag over the pot. Germinates in spring[1]. Spring sown spores germinate in 1 - 3 months at 15°c[134]. Pot on small clumps of plantlets as soon as they are large enough to handle and grow them on in light shade in a cold frame or greenhouse. Keep them humid until they are well established. When they are at least 15cm tall, plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer.
For further Asplenium adiantum-nigrum gardening information click on one of the blue links below Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses
The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'. View their bibliography

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