Easy to grow and evergreen in warm climates, the Hart's-Tongue Fern is one of the joys of the shade garden. Its dramatic, leathery, tongue-shaped fronds of dark green each boast a double row of spores resembling a centipede (the translation of its Greek species name, "scolopendria"), and arise from a strong central rhizome. With good drainage and plenty of humus, this Phyllitis quickly reaches its mature size of 18 to 24 inches tall and wide, a lovely choice for the border, patio garden, or as a specimen in any shady spot.Hart's-Tongue Ferns have the reputation of being limestone-dependent, but I have had success with them in slightly acidic soils. They are a fine choice for rock gardens, but are perhaps happiest in moist, shady woodland settings. They require good drainage, and must not be overwatered. That said, they are quite tolerant of unseasonable heat and cold, and are generally not fussy about soil conditions. Space plants 12 to 18 inches apart for solid coverage with bold, handsome foliage. Zones 5-9.
