Blechnum spicant: The Hard Fern
Hard Fern
Position
- Partial to full shade
- Sheltered from strong winds
- North or east-facing aspects ideal
- Protected from direct afternoon sun
- Woodland settings perfect
- Cool, damp locations preferred
Hardiness
- Tolerates temperatures down to -25°C (-13°F)
- Evergreen in sheltered positions
- Very hardy throughout the UK
- Performs well in coastal areas
Soil Type
- Rich, moist but well-draining soil
- Humus-rich woodland soil type
- Prefers acidic soil
- Cannot tolerate waterlogged conditions
- Benefits from organic matter incorporation
Soil PH
- Prefers acidic to neutral pH
Height
- Height: 30-60cm (12-24 inches)
- Spread: 30-45cm (12-18 inches)
- Takes 3-5 years to reach full size
Seasons of Interest
- Evergreen sterile fronds
- Distinctive upright fertile fronds in summer
- Deep green leathery texture
- Year-round architectural presence
- No flowers (ornamental fern)
- Dimorphic fronds (two different types)
Additional Notes
- Native to British woodlands
- Excellent for naturalising
- Perfect for rock gardens
- Low maintenance once established
- Good for containers
- Regular mulching beneficial
- Avoid overhead watering
- Deer and rabbit resistant
- Good for urban gardens
- Works well under trees
- Benefits from annual removal of damaged fronds
- Tolerates exposed coastal conditions
- Does well in north-facing aspects
- Good for small gardens
- Creates natural woodland effect
- Compact growth habit
- Never becomes invasive
- Looks good with heathers
- Traditional medicinal uses historically
- Good for stabilising banks
- Thrives in acid soil conditions
Blechnum spicant: The Hard Fern
The Hard Fern brings distinctive character and evergreen structure to shaded gardens. This robust native fern offers year-round interest with its unique dimorphic fronds and architectural presence.
Physical Characteristics
Blechnum spicant forms compact rosettes reaching 30-60cm (12-24 inches) in height. The fern produces two distinct types of fronds: spreading sterile ones and upright fertile fronds. Each frond displays deep green, leathery texture.
Growing Requirements
This adaptable fern thrives in partial to full shade conditions. It prefers acidic, moisture-retentive soil but tolerates various situations. The strong root system helps establish permanent plantings in woodland settings.
Seasonal Interest
Spring brings fresh growth as new fronds unfurl. Summer sees the emergence of distinctive upright fertile fronds. Winter interest continues with evergreen sterile fronds maintaining structure and colour.
Garden Uses
The Hard Fern excels in various garden situations. It creates striking ground cover in woodland gardens and shaded borders. The compact nature suits rock gardens and small spaces.
Care and Maintenance
This low-maintenance fern needs minimal attention. Remove damaged fronds as needed throughout the year. Annual mulching helps maintain soil moisture and adds nutrients naturally.
Planting Tips
Plant in spring or autumn when soil conditions prove most favourable. Space plants 30-45cm (12-18 inches) apart to allow for mature spread. Incorporate organic matter during planting.
Soil Requirements
Blechnum spicant prefers acidic, well-draining conditions. It grows best in humus-rich woodland soil. Adding leaf mould or pine needle mulch improves growing conditions significantly.
Companion Plants
This fern pairs beautifully with other shade-lovers. Consider combining with heathers, bilberries, and spring bulbs. The evergreen fronds provide excellent winter structure.
Container Growing
Though naturally compact, the Hard Fern grows successfully in containers. Use pots at least 30cm (12 inches) deep with reliable drainage. Regular watering proves essential.
Problem Solving
This robust fern rarely encounters serious problems. Occasional brown fronds might appear during extended dry spells. Increase watering during drought periods and remove damaged growth.
Climate Tolerance
The Hard Fern shows excellent hardiness, withstanding temperatures down to -25°C (-13°F). It performs well throughout the UK, particularly in areas with reliable rainfall.
Final Thoughts
Blechnum spicant offers gardeners a distinctive and reliable choice for shaded areas. Its unique frond structure, robust nature, and year-round presence make it valuable in various garden settings. This low-maintenance fern brings architectural interest and dependable performance to challenging shade conditions.
The combination of sterile and fertile fronds creates visual interest throughout the year. Whether in woodland gardens, rock gardens, or containers, the Hard Fern proves itself as a worthy addition to any shade garden design.
The fern’s ability to maintain interest through all seasons, combined with its compact growth habit, makes it perfect for smaller gardens and confined spaces. Its presence adds sophistication and depth to shaded areas where many plants might struggle.
Check out the RHS article here.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does Blechnum spicant grow?
A: Blechnum spicant typically reaches heights of 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 down to -25°C (-13°F). It adapts well to the UK climate and can thrive in various 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. Simply remove any damaged or brown fronds when necessary to encourage fresh growth.
Q: Can I grow it in containers?
A: Yes, the Hard Fern grows well in containers. Use pots at least 30cm (12 inches) deep with good drainage to keep the roots healthy.
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. Summer sees the mature fronds maintain their colour, while winter offers evergreen structure in the garden.