Cystopteris fragilis
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FRAGILE FERN, BLADDER FERN, BRITTLE BLADDER FERN
Family: Dryopteridaceae
Pronounced: sis-TOP-ter-is FRAJ-ih-liss
GROWING GUIDE
Geographic Origin:
Temperate regions of the northern hemisphere.
Plant Group:
Ferns.
Hardiness:
Sunset zones: Not listed.
USDA zones: 4-8.
Mature size:
Height: 8 inches (20 cm).
Width: 8 inches (20 cm).
Leaf attributes:
Deciduous, lance-shaped, 2-3 pinnate, light green fronds up to 18 inches long.
Growth habit:
Clump forming.
Light:
Full sun to shade.
Soil:
Moist to dry, fertile soil.
Propagation Methods:
Sow spores at 61°F (16°C). | Rhizome divisions.
Pests and Diseases:
Leaf gall and rust may occur.
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Rainy Side Notes
Cystopteris comes from the greek word, kystos, meaning bladder, and pteris, meaning fern, refers to the hood-like indusium that covers the sori of the fern. One of the most widely distributed ferns in the world, C. fragilis is found throughout the Pacific Northwest. Sometimes mistaken for Athyrium filix-femina (lady fern), it can be found on rocky cliffs or forests and crevices and ledges at all elevations, even above the timberline. Also C. fragilis can be found on damp rocks and on thin soil over rock. It is a fern that can grow in full sun.
Debra Teachout-Teashon
Photographed at Mt. Baker.
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