Blechnum spicant

©1998

DEER FERN, LADDER FERN
Family: Blechinaceae

GROWING GUIDE

Geographic Origin: : North America: Alaska, British Columbia, California, Idaho, Oregon, Washington, Europe, N.E. Asia.
Plant Group: Ferns.
Hardiness: Sunset zones: 1-9, 14-24. USDA zones: 5-8.
Mature size: Height: 8-20 inches (20-50 cm). Width: 2 feet (60 cm).
Leaf attributes: Lance shaped and pinnate dark green fronds.
Growth habit: Compact growth habit, creeping rhizomes.
Light: Partial to deep shade.

Soil: Humus rich (preferably with leaf mold), moist, acidic soil.
Feeding: None needed.
Propagation Methods: Divide in spring. | Sow spores in late summer.

Rainy Side Notes

This native is beautiful in its native haunts. Its evergreen foliage makes it a great year round plant for the Northwest garden.

Debra Teachout-Teashon
Photographed in author's garden.

Questions, comments or suggestions? Would you like to communicate with other Pacific Northwest gardeners? Please join us on our forum.

Back to Native Plants Index