// SPECIES PROFILE · PERENNIAL · NATIVE

Walking fern

Asplenium rhizophyllum

Walking fern (Asplenium rhizophyllum) is a perennial in the — family. Native range includes AR, KS, MO, OK. Hardy in zones 2b–9a. Mature size 6"–1'.

// QUICK FACTS

Family: —
Group: perennial
Native range: Native to 32 U.S. states, including AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, GA…
USDA hardiness: Zones 2b–9a
Mature size: 6"–1'
Sun: Part shade
Water: —
Bloom: —
Wildlife value: Pollinator and wildlife support
Ecological role: native species profile

Walking fern (Asplenium rhizophyllum) — *Asplenium rhizophyllum* — Walking fern. Photo by Richtid via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0).

Field Notes

[ growing · ecology · siting · care ]

Walking fern (Asplenium rhizophyllum) is a perennial in the — family. Native range includes AR, KS, MO, OK. Hardy in zones 2b–9a. Mature size 6"–1'.

Why it's on this list: native species profile. Native-range data from the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center (NPIN), cross-checked against iNaturalist observations. Part of Rooted Revival's regional native plant catalog — true natives for Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri and Kansas.

Companion Planting

[ guild · polyculture · cross-layer pairings ]

In the same native range, walking fern pairs naturally with: Broadleaf Arrowhead (Sagittaria latifolia), Blue-Eyed Grass (Sisyrinchium angustifolium), Butterfly Milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa), Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis).