This evergreen or terrestrial or epiphytic fern has a woody branched rhizome that forms a dense clump. It has arching-spreading dark glossy green divided fronds with oblong leaflets and the fertile fronds produce spores during summer.

Hardiness zones 9 to 11

Asplenium oblongifoliumis naturally found in New Zealand growing in the North and the northern South Island in coastal lowlands and in the lower mountains in the understory of dry forest or on the trees. It has also been found growing in Norfolk and Lord Howe Island and the Kermadec Islands.

It prefers a semi-shaded to shaded open or protected position and it grows in very well drained organic rich moist sandy stony soils that are acidic to alkaline. It is frost, drought and salt laden wind tolerant and is resistant to deer and rabbits.

The Shining Spleenwort is grown for its attractive foliage and clumping habit. It is planted along shaded borders in parks and gardens as a specimen were used in the understory the woodland setting. It is also used on embankments and growing amongst rocks around water features for a tropical effect.

It is suitable for coastal and low mountain regions and establishes in 3-4 years and is long lived. It is also commonly grown in patio pots or tubs tolerating drier conditions or exposed positions. ID 2900

Asplenium(a-SPLAY-nee-um) oblongifolium(ob-long-ee-Foh-lee-um)

Dryopteridaceae(DRY-op-TER-ee-DAY-see-ee)