In the United Kingdom, the Hart’s-tongue Fern (Asplenium scolopendrium) is a distinctive fern species native to woodlands, rocky outcrops, and shady areas. It belongs to the Aspleniaceae family and is characterised by its long, glossy, undivided fronds that resemble the shape of a deer’s tongue.

Hart’s-tongue Fern typically thrives in moist, shaded habitats, often found in limestone woodlands, ravines, and along stream banks across the UK. It is an evergreen fern, meaning it retains its foliage throughout the year, providing greenery even in the depths of winter.

As a fern species, Hart’s-tongue Fern does not produce flowers or seeds but reproduces through spores, which are produced on the undersides of its fronds. These spores are dispersed by wind or water and germinate to form new fern plants.

Behaviourally, Hart’s-tongue Fern grows in clumps or colonies, spreading slowly over time through rhizome growth. It is a long-lived plant, capable of persisting for many years in suitable habitat conditions.

With its distinctive appearance and preference for shaded woodlands, Hart’s-tongue Fern has been celebrated in art, literature, and folklore throughout history. Its name “Hart’s-tongue” may derive from its resemblance to the tongue of a deer or stag, while its association with shady, mystical woodlands adds to its cultural allure.

An interesting fact about Hart’s-tongue Fern is its use in traditional herbal medicine. Historically, the fern’s fronds were believed to have medicinal properties and were used to treat various ailments, including wounds, fevers, and digestive issues. However, it is important to note that modern herbalists caution against the internal use of Hart’s-tongue Fern due to potential toxicity.