About
Blechnum discolor is a perennial fern characterized by its bright green, erect fertile fronds that feature lighter-colored undersides. These are complemented by arching, non-reproductive fronds that are also green. As the plant ages, it may form a short, trunk-like rhizome.
About the genus
Blechnum consists primarily of evergreen ferns characterized by upright or spreading rhizomes. The fronds are typically simple and pinnate, with fertile fronds standing upright while the sterile ones tend to spread out.
Growing conditions
- Sunlight
- Full shade, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam, Clay, Sand
- Soil pH
- Neutral, Acid
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
- Aspect
- West-facing, East-facing, North-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
- Plant type
- Ferns, Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Height
- 0.5-1 metres
- Spread
- 0.5-1 metres
- Time to full height
- 5-10 years
- Suggested uses
- Patio and container plants, Cottage and informal garden
- Native to
- New Zealand
Care notes
- Cultivation
- For best results grow in moist but free draining soil in partial shade. For more information see our advice page how to grow ferns.
- Pruning
- Generally not required but can remove dead or damaged fronds as required.
- Propagation
- Propagate by division or spores
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free