About

Blechnum niponicum forms a nearly horizontal rosette of evergreen fronds that are leathery and robust, displaying a deep green hue. As new fronds emerge, they exhibit subtle tones of pink, red, and orange, particularly at the edges and tips. In summer and autumn, upright spikes that produce fertile spores rise from the center of the plant, contrasting with the surrounding foliage.

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
Partial shade
Soil type
Loam, Clay
Soil pH
Neutral, Acid
Soil moisture
Moist but 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
0.1-0.5 metres
Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height
2-5 years
Suggested uses
Rock garden, Patio and container plants, Cottage and informal garden
Native to
Japan

Care notes

Cultivation
Grow in moist yet well drained soil in partial shade. For more information see our advice page how to grow ferns.
Pruning
No pruning required
Propagation
Propogate by division or spores
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free