Overview
Blechnum patersonii is a columnar upright ferns in the genus Blechnum, part of the Blechnaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Blechnum patersonii grows best in partial shade, and tolerates loam soils and acid pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1b. Suggested uses include houseplants, patio and container plants, sub-tropical and conservatory and greenhouse.
About
Austroblechnum patersonii, synonym Blechnum patersonii, is a fern in the family Blechnaceae. It is known as the strap water-fern. It is native to eastern Australia (Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and Tasmania), Lord Howe Island, New Zealand and the Society Islands (Tahiti). In the garden it prefers partial shade and loam soil. In UK gardens it needs subtropical warmth and glass protection in the UK (RHS H1b). Suggested uses include houseplants, patio and container plants, sub-tropical and conservatory and greenhouse. It tolerates acid soils, moist but well-drained conditions and north-facing or east-facing aspects. Plant in moist, humus-rich soil in shade.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Austroblechnum patersonii
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Blechnum
- Sunlight
- Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Acid
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- North-facing or East-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H1b
Plant details
Blechnum patersonii size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Ferns, Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Houseplants, Patio and container plants, Sub-tropical, Conservatory and greenhouse
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Blechnum patersonii
- Propagation
- Spores in summer, division
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Blechnum patersonii?
Blechnum patersonii prefers partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Blechnum patersonii need?
Blechnum patersonii grows best in loam soil. It prefers acid soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Blechnum patersonii hardy in the UK?
Blechnum patersonii has an RHS hardiness rating of H1b, meaning it needs subtropical warmth of 10–15°C and must be grown under glass in the UK.
How do I propagate Blechnum patersonii?
Spores in summer, division.
More in the Blechnum genus
- Blechnum ambiguum
- Blechnum filiformethread fern
- Blechnum from Chile
- Blechnum nudumfishbone water fern
- Blechnum obtusatum
- Blechnum penna-marinaalpine water fern
- Blechnum procerum
- Blechnum herminieri