A uniquely shaped, more delicate fern adds interest to the shade garden with its fine-textured, thinned fronds. Black wiry stem and u-shaped arrangement of fronds make this fern stand out from others. Spreads slowly to form colonies and can provide an excellent soft landing habitat for pupating moths and butterflies.
Pollinator Type
Caterpillars/larvae
Plant Type
Herbaceous perennial
Zone
3 to 8
Height
1 to 2 ft.
Spread
1 to 2 ft.
Light
Shade, Partial Shade
Moisture Requirement
Medium Soil, Wet Soil
Bloom Color
NA
Bloom Time
NA
Design Considerations
Great ground cover in the shade garden, although slow to spread. Shorter than other ferns so could be planted in front of them to create a layered effect. Works well as an edging plant along pathways or in garden beds.
Care and Maintenance
Prefers high humidity so plant in an area without exposure to high winds. Prefers moist soil with rich organic matter.
Pest and Diseases
No major issues.
Establishment and Propagation
Typically established from plugs or small potted plants.
Commercial Availability
Commonly available
Alternative Plant Selections
Lady Fern
Native Status
Illinois native statewide
Fall Color
Insignificant, green.
Growth habit
Perennial, deciduous fern with a clump-forming habitat and design effect. Slowly spreads by rhizomes.
Number of Caterpillars that Use this as a Host Plant
