Blechnum spicant (Hard Fern)

Noted for its unique and distinctive type of fronds, Blechnum spicant (Hard Fern) is a charming, tufted, evergreen fern with interesting foliage texture. While the evergreen sterile fronds spread horizontally from a basal tuft to form a neat arching mound of finely cut foliage, the fertile fronds rise straight up above this mound before drying out and withering away in fall.

Low maintenance, pest, and disease-free, Hard Fern is easy to grow in most cool, moist, shaded sites.

• Clump-forming, it easily grows up to 18-24 in. tall (45-60 cm) and 18-36 in. wide (45-90 cm).
• Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society for its outstanding qualities
• A part to full shade lover, it is best grown in moist, acidic, well-drained soils. Tolerates some sun in cool summer regions. Mulch around the plants with compost to keep the soil moisture even
• This plant is a great choice for shady beds, borders, underplanting of roses and shrubs, cottage gardens, woodlands, and containers. Excellent for edging or as groundcover too.
• Rabbit and deer tolerant!
• Dead or damaged fronds may be removed as necessary.
• Propagate by sowing spores (may not come true) in mid to late summer or by division in spring.
• Native to Europe, Northeast Asia, and Western North America

Ferns come in an amazing array of textures, colors, sizes, and shapes. Easy to grow and versatile, they add beauty to almost any spot in the garden. While most ferns enjoy part shade or dappled sunlight, many will perform well in sunny locations, provided they get enough water. Most ferns are slow-growing and may take several years to reach their mature size. Requiring minimal maintenance throughout the year, they offer gardeners plenty of attractive planting options!