Blechnum spicant: The Hard Fern

Blechnum spicant, commonly known as the Hard Fern, is a resilient and visually striking native fern that adds lasting interest and architectural structure to shaded gardens. This elegant evergreen species is particularly valued for its dimorphic fronds—a unique feature that enhances its ornamental appeal throughout the year.

Well-suited to woodland borders, damp shady banks, and container displays, the Hard Fern is both aesthetically refined and robust in performance. It thrives in a wide range of UK garden conditions. Its ability to deliver year-round structure, particularly in areas with little winter colour, makes it a true asset in any thoughtful planting design.

Blechnum spicant forms dense, symmetrical rosettes, reaching between 30 and 60cm (12 and 24 inches) in height and spread. This fern is immediately recognisable for its dimorphic fronds:

• Sterile fronds: These arching, glossy green fronds form the outer crown and remain evergreen throughout the year. They lie close to the ground, creating a graceful, spreading habit.
• Fertile fronds emerge upright in late spring to summer, reaching skywards with narrower, more rigid pinnae. Their vertical growth adds height and contrast to the plant’s low-lying form.

The deep green, leathery foliage offers an attractive texture against mosses, heathers, and other shade-tolerant plants. Its strong form brings depth and natural symmetry to shaded planting schemes.

While Blechnum spicant is considered low-maintenance, success relies on replicating its natural woodland environment:

• Light: Prefers partial to full shade. Dappled sunlight beneath tree canopies or on the north side of buildings works well.
• Soil: Thrives in acidic, humus-rich, and moisture-retentive soils. Ideal for gardens with peaty or loamy conditions.
• Moisture: Consistent moisture is key—this fern dislikes drying out, especially in containers or shallow soils.
• Drainage: Though moisture-loving, it will not tolerate waterlogged conditions. Ensure well-draining soil with ample organic matter.

Its deep, fibrous root system enables it to establish and perform reliably for many years with little intervention.

Blechnum spicant offers continuous interest across all four seasons, making it invaluable in shaded or evergreen planting schemes:

• Spring: New sterile fronds unfurl in a striking fiddlehead form, while fertile fronds begin their upright growth.
• Summer: The vertical fertile fronds reach full height, contrasting beautifully with the spreading basal growth.
• Autumn: Fertile fronds begin to brown and fade, but the sterile fronds remain rich green and lush.
• Winter: Evergreen sterile fronds persist, providing structure, colour, and protection for wildlife.

The fern’s seasonal transitions are subtle yet impactful, offering texture and tone shifts that enrich woodland-style designs.

For optimal success when planting Blechnum spicant:

• Plant in spring or early autumn, when the soil is moist and temperatures are mild.
• Spacing: Position plants 30–45cm (12–18 inches) apart to allow room for mature rosettes to develop fully.
• Soil preparation: Work in plenty of organic matter, such as leaf mould, ericaceous compost, or well-rotted pine bark, to enhance soil structure and acidity.
• Water in well, then keep soil evenly moist while the fern establishes.

The Hard Fern can persist in the right environment for many years, rewarding minimal care with timeless appeal.

Blechnum spicant is naturally found in acidic woodland soils, and replicating these conditions will yield the best results:

• Soil pH: Prefers acidic to neutral soil. Avoid chalky or highly alkaline conditions.
• Drainage: Needs a balance of moisture retention and free drainage. Leaf litter or composted pine needles help improve both.
• Enrichment: Annual top-dressing with organic mulch improves soil texture, fertility, and moisture retention.

Consider growing it in containers filled with an ericaceous compost blend in gardens with alkaline soil.

Though naturally a woodland species, Blechnum spicant adapts well to container cultivation, especially where soil conditions need controlling:

• Use deep pots (minimum 30cm/12 inches) to accommodate the fern’s root system.
• Fill with a moisture-retentive, ericaceous compost mix.
• Ensure excellent drainage by incorporating grit at the base and avoiding waterlogged conditions.
• Position containers in shaded, sheltered areas like north-facing patios or under large shrubs.

Keep containers well-watered and protected from winter winds, especially during dry frosty spells.

This fern pairs elegantly with other acid-loving, shade-tolerant species:

• Heathers (Calluna vulgaris) and Bilberries (Vaccinium myrtillus) complement the fern’s woodland aesthetic and thrive in similar soil conditions.
• Spring bulbs: Add seasonal bursts of colour beneath or among the fronds—try snowdrops, wood anemones, or bluebells.
• Hostas, Epimediums, and Brunnera: Provide varied foliage textures and seasonal blooms for shade gardens.

Together, these companions create layered, low-light planting schemes rich in contrast and ecological benefit.

Blechnum spicant is generally problem-free when grown in suitable conditions:

• Drought stress: During long dry spells, fronds may brown. Increase watering and apply a mulch layer to retain moisture.
• Winter dieback: In unusually cold or exposed locations, fronds may become tatty—cut back in spring to refresh the plant.
• Pests and diseases: Rarely affected. Natural resilience and evergreen foliage keep it looking healthy year-round.

Regular mulching and consistent moisture are the keys to preventing issues.

This fern is extremely hardy across the UK, making it an ideal choice for challenging, cool, or damp locations:

• Survives temperatures down to –25°C (–13°F).
• Performs especially well in areas with high rainfall, such as the western and northern parts of the UK.
• Tolerates exposed woodland edges, damp north-facing slopes, and urban shade gardens.

Its climate resilience and adaptability make it a trusted choice for gardeners seeking longevity and structure in shade.

I’ve always had a soft spot for ferns, and Blechnum spicant is one I turn to repeatedly for those tricky shaded corners. It’s a dependable plant—quietly architectural, always tidy, and endlessly elegant. I’ve tucked it under deciduous trees where little else thrives, and it never fails to bring structure and life through the darkest months. I really appreciate its evergreen form—it gives the garden backbone in winter when most plants are taking a break. I also love how the upright fertile fronds add a bit of drama in summer without overwhelming neighbouring plants. If you’ve got a shady patch that needs a lift, or a container you’d like to turn into a woodland-style feature, this is the fern I’d recommend every time.

Blechnum spicant, the Hard Fern, offers a rare combination of durability, elegance, and year-round presence. Its contrasting sterile and fertile fronds create layered visual interest. At the same time, its compact habit makes it suitable for a wide range of shaded planting scenarios—from wild woodland glades to refined contemporary borders.

Whether used as a groundcover in a naturalistic woodland garden, a textural accent in a rockery, or a structural feature in a shady container, this native fern brings depth, continuity, and understated sophistication. For UK gardeners looking to enhance shaded spaces with a low-maintenance, evergreen plant, Blechnum spicant remains a timeless and highly rewarding choice.

Check out the RHS article here.

Want to learn about other fern varieties? Read about the Hairy Lip Fern here.

For more information on ferns for your garden, please check out our guide to ferns for UK gardens.

Q: How tall does Blechnum spicant grow?

A: Blechnum spicant typically reaches 30-60cm (12-24 inches). Its compact form makes it an attractive choice for shaded areas.

Q: What growing conditions does the Hard Fern prefer?

A: This fern thrives in partial to full shade. It prefers acidic, well-draining soil that retains some moisture but does not become waterlogged.

Q: How hardy is Blechnum spicant?

A: The Hard Fern withstands temperatures below -25°C (-13°F). It adapts well to the UK climate and can thrive in shaded environments.

Q: When is the best time to plant it?

A: Plant Blechnum spicant in spring or autumn when soil conditions are most favourable. This timing allows the roots to establish well.

Q: Does it require much maintenance?

A: Once established, Blechnum spicant is low-maintenance. To encourage fresh growth, simply remove any damaged or brown fronds when necessary.

Q: Can I grow it in containers?

A: Yes, the Hard Fern grows well in containers. To keep the roots healthy, use pots at least 30cm (12 inches) deep with good drainage.

Q: What companion plants pair well with Blechnum spicant?

A: This fern pairs nicely with other shade-loving plants like heathers and shade-tolerant spring bulbs. Its texture and colour complement many plants.

Q: How does it handle dry conditions?

A: While it grows best in consistent moisture, Blechnum spicant can tolerate short dry spells. Prolonged drought may lead to browning of the fronds.

Q: Is the Hard Fern prone to pests or diseases?

A: Blechnum spicant generally resists pests and diseases. Maintaining good air circulation and regular inspections will help keep it healthy.

Q: What seasonal interest does it provide?

A: In spring, new fronds emerge with a vibrant green hue. The mature fronds maintain their colour in summer, while winter offers an evergreen structure in the garden.