Contents
Description
Asplenium Ensiforme, also known as sword fern, is a species of fern that belongs to the Aspleniaceae family. It is an evergreen perennial fern that is native to tropical and subtropical regions around the world, including Asia, Africa, Australia, and the Americas. The fern gets its name from the long, narrow, sword-shaped fronds that grow up to 3 feet in length and 3 inches in width. The fronds are glossy and dark green in color, with a slightly leathery texture. The plant grows in clumps and can reach a height of up to 2 feet, with a spread of 3 feet.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Aspleniales |
| Family | Aspleniaceae |
| Genus | Asplenium |
Appearance
Sword ferns have a distinctive appearance that makes them easy to identify. Their fronds are long, narrow, and sword-shaped, with a slightly curved tip. The fronds grow from a central rosette and are arranged in a circular pattern. The fronds are dark green in color and have a glossy, leathery texture. The plant itself is relatively small, growing to a height of up to 2 feet and a spread of 3 feet. Sword ferns are an excellent choice for adding texture and interest to shady areas of the garden.
Care Guide
Sword ferns are relatively easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips for caring for your sword fern:
- Water: Sword ferns prefer moist soil, so be sure to water them regularly, especially during dry spells. However, be careful not to overwater them, as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Sword ferns don’t require a lot of fertilizer, but you can give them a boost by applying a balanced fertilizer in the spring and summer.
- Soil: Sword ferns prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, amend it with compost or other organic matter before planting.
- Sunlight: Sword ferns prefer partial to full shade, making them an excellent choice for shady areas of the garden.
- Hardiness Zones: Sword ferns are hardy in USDA zones 8-10, but can also be grown as houseplants in colder climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sword ferns are relatively pest-resistant, but they can be susceptible to a few common pests and diseases:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can suck the sap from the leaves of sword ferns, causing them to turn yellow and brown. To control spider mites, spray the leaves with a mixture of water and dish soap.
- Scale insects: Scale insects can also infest sword ferns, causing them to turn yellow and lose their leaves. To control scale insects, apply a horticultural oil spray.
- Root rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can cause the plant to wilt and die. To prevent root rot, be sure to plant sword ferns in well-draining soil and water them sparingly.
Habitat
Sword ferns are found in a variety of habitats, including forests, swamps, and wetlands. They are native to tropical and subtropical regions around the world, including Asia, Africa, Australia, and the Americas. In the wild, sword ferns can be found growing on the forest floor or on rocks and trees.
Question and Answer
Q: Can sword ferns tolerate full sun?
A: Sword ferns prefer partial to full shade and can be damaged by too much sun exposure.
Q: Do sword ferns need to be fertilized?
A: While sword ferns don’t require a lot of fertilizer, they can benefit from a balanced fertilizer applied in the spring and summer.
Q: How often should I water my sword fern?
A: Sword ferns prefer moist soil, so be sure to water them regularly, especially during dry spells. However, be careful not to overwater them, as this can lead to root rot.
Q: Can sword ferns be grown indoors?
A: Yes, sword ferns can be grown indoors as houseplants in colder climates.
Related Plants
- Asplenium Bulbiferum
- Asplenium Nidus
- Asplenium Parvatiense
- Asplenium Trichomanes
References
- Flora of North America Editorial Committee. (1993). Flora of North America North of Mexico, Volume 2: Pteridophytes and Gymnosperms. Oxford University Press.
- Gardenia.net. (n.d.). Aspleniumensiforme (Sword Fern). Retrieved from https://www.gardenia.net/plant/asplenium-ensiforme-sword-fern
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Aspleniumensiforme. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=m780
