About

Cheilanthes eatonii is a perennial fern characterized by its pale green fronds, which are densely coated in fine white or creamy hairs. The unfurling fronds typically display a curled or contorted shape and can exhibit a tan hue.

About the genus

Cheilanthes are generally evergreen ferns that form tight clusters of small fronds on glossy, frequently dark stalks.

Growing conditions

Sunlight
Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type
Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Neutral, Acid
Soil moisture
Well-drained
Aspect
East-facing, West-facing, South-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
C & S USA, Mex.

Care notes

Cultivation
This is a dryland fern so unlike most other ferns it prefers a well drained soil, especially over winter. Can tolerate partial shade or sun. Good choice for container cultivation. See how to grow ferns for further advice
Pruning
No pruning required
Propagation
Propagate by division or spores
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free