The Elusive Adderstongue: What You Need to Know About This Rare Arctic Fern
If you’ve stumbled across the name adderstongue in your native plant research, you might be wondering if this mysterious fern could find a home in your garden. While the name might sound intriguing, Ophioglossum azoricum is one of those fascinating plants that’s better appreciated from afar than grown in your backyard.
What Exactly Is Adderstongue?
Adderstongue is a perennial fern that belongs to the unique Ophioglossum genus, commonly known as adder’s-tongue ferns. Unlike the typical frilly ferns you might picture, these plants have a distinctive appearance with simple, undivided leaves and a separate fertile spike that somewhat resembles a snake’s tongue – hence the common name.
As a forb, this plant lacks the woody tissue you’d find in shrubs or trees, instead growing as a soft-stemmed perennial that emerges fresh each growing season.
Where Does It Call Home?
This particular species is native to Greenland, making it adapted to some pretty extreme Arctic conditions. It’s part of the harsh, beautiful landscape of one of the world’s most challenging growing environments.
Why You Probably Shouldn’t Try Growing It
Here’s the thing about Ophioglossum azoricum – it’s not your typical garden center find, and for good reason. This Arctic native has very specific environmental needs that are nearly impossible to replicate in most home gardens:
- It requires extremely cold winter conditions
- The growing season in its native habitat is incredibly short
- It’s likely adapted to unique soil conditions found in Greenland
- Seeds or plants are not commercially available
Even if you live in a northern climate, attempting to grow this rare species would likely end in disappointment for both you and the plant.
Better Alternatives for Your Garden
If you’re drawn to the idea of unique ferns in your landscape, consider these native alternatives that are much more garden-friendly:
- Christmas fern (Polystichum acrostichoides) for evergreen winter interest
- Cinnamon fern (Osmundastrum cinnamomeum) for dramatic height and texture
- Lady fern (Athyrium filix-femina) for delicate, lacy foliage
Appreciating Rare Plants Responsibly
Plants like Ophioglossum azoricum remind us of the incredible diversity of plant life adapted to extreme environments. While we can’t bring every fascinating species into our gardens, we can appreciate them for their role in their native ecosystems and support conservation efforts that protect these unique habitats.
If you’re passionate about Arctic plants, consider supporting botanical gardens or research institutions that study and preserve these remarkable species. Sometimes the best way to love a plant is to let it thrive where it belongs.
The Bottom Line
While adderstongue might have an intriguing name and interesting botanical characteristics, it’s definitely not a plant for the home gardener. Instead, channel your enthusiasm for unique native plants into species that are better suited to cultivation and will actually thrive in your garden conditions.
