Silvery Spleenwort
(Deparia acrostichoides)
Silvery Spleenwort (Deparia acrostichoides)
/
/
Evan M. Raskin
CC BY 4.0
Image By:
Evan M. Raskin
Recorded By:
Copyright:
CC BY 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Evan M. Raskin | License Type: CC BY 4.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ | Rights Holder: Evan M. Raskin | Publisher: iNaturalist | Date Created: 2020-04-24T11:40:11-07:00 |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Deparia acrostichoides, commonly known as Silvery Spleenwort, is a deciduous fern native to the rich, moist, deciduous forests of the Eastern United States and Eastern Canada, often found in shaded ravines and on north-facing slopes. It typically grows to a height and width of 2-3 feet, featuring compound leaves with a silvery sheen on the undersides, especially when young. The fronds are broad and arching, contributing to its lush appearance. It does not produce showy flowers, as it reproduces via spores contained in sori on the underside of the fronds.
Silvery Spleenwort is valued for its attractive foliage and its ability to thrive in shady garden spots where other plants might struggle. It is often used in woodland gardens, shade gardens, and naturalized areas. This fern prefers consistently moist, well-drained soils rich in organic matter and thrives in full to partial shade. It is relatively low-maintenance once established and does not have serious disease or pest issues. However, it requires protection from strong winds and excessive sun to prevent frond damage. Silvery Spleenwort is not known for being invasive and is a good choice for gardeners looking to add a native fern to their landscape.CC BY-SA 4.0
Silvery Spleenwort is valued for its attractive foliage and its ability to thrive in shady garden spots where other plants might struggle. It is often used in woodland gardens, shade gardens, and naturalized areas. This fern prefers consistently moist, well-drained soils rich in organic matter and thrives in full to partial shade. It is relatively low-maintenance once established and does not have serious disease or pest issues. However, it requires protection from strong winds and excessive sun to prevent frond damage. Silvery Spleenwort is not known for being invasive and is a good choice for gardeners looking to add a native fern to their landscape.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Herb, Fern
- Height: 1.5-3 feet
- Width: 1.5-3 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: N/A
- Flowering Season: Non-Flowering
- Leaf Retention: Deciduous
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Shade, Part Shade
- Water: High
- Drainage: Medium
Common Uses
Bird Garden, Deer Resistant, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant
Natural Habitat
Rich, moist, deciduous forests, shaded ravines, and north-facing slopes
Other Names
Common Names: Silvery Glade Fern, Silver False Spleenwort
Scientific Names: , Deparia acrostichoides, Athyrium thelypteroides, Athyrium thelypterioides, Athyrium acrostichoides, Asplenium acrostichoides, Lunathyrium acrostichoides, Athyrium thelypterioides f. acrostichoides, Asplenium thelypterioides, Asplenium thelypteroides
GBIF Accepted Name: Deparia acrostichoides (Sw.) M.Kato