Asplenium trichomanes Maidenhair spleenwort (Polypodiaceae) Evergreen fern

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Asplenium trichomanes
Maidenhair spleenwort
Evergreen fern
(1 Page of 5)

The Asplenium trichomanes plant species is found in Britain. It is a member of the Polypodiaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Maidenhair spleenwort.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Asplenium trichomanes
Common Name:  Maidenhair 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:  0.4   Mature Width:

Habitat:  Walls and crevices of mainly basic 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. The spores usually germinate in the 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 greenhouse. Keep the plants humid until they are well established. Once the plants are 15cm or more tall, plant them out into their permanent positions in the spring.

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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'.
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