A fern with a unique frond shape, adding a course texture. Sensitive Fern is grown as a groundcover to provide a habitat for visiting pollinators, rather than serving as a direct source of nectar or pollen.
Pollinator Type
Caterpillars
Plant Type
Herbaceous perennial
Zone
4 to 8
Height
1 to 3 ft.
Spread
2 to 4 ft.
Light
Shade, Partial Shade
Moisture Requirement
Medium Soil, Wet Soil
Bloom Color
NA
Bloom Time
NA
Design Considerations
Great in mass plantings, good substitute for hostas in the shade garden. Can spread aggressively in ideal conditions (consistently moist soil). Drought sensitive. Fronds are sensitive to the first frost and readily die back, which inspired its common name.
Care and Maintenance
Keep soil moist throughout summer to keep foliage from yellowing. Can form large colonies, so may need to divide if spreading.
Pest and Diseases
No major issues.
Establishment and Propagation
Start from plugs.
Commercial Availability
Rarely available.
Alternative Plant Selections
Christmas Fern
Native Status
Illinois native statewide.
Fall Color
Insignificant
Growth habit
Perennial fern that spreads by rhizomes and spores.
Number of Caterpillars that Use this as a Host Plant
