A fern is a flowerless, seedless vascular plant that has roots, stems, and leaf-like fronds. Ferns reproduce with spores instead of seeds. The Ebony Spleenwort fern has ladder-like leaves with a black stem. It is semi-evergreen and will persist well after the first frost. It usually grows 6-12 inches tall.

     It grows best in shaded woods and along banks, fences, or walls in semi-moist soil. This fern also does well in terrariums. Plant the rhizome about one inch deep.