About

Doodia aspera, the prickly rasp-fern, is a compact, tufted, evergreen fern from eastern Australia with sword-shaped, dark-green fronds bearing prickle-toothed segments along a brown midrib. New fronds emerge in an attractive orange-red, maturing to green. An ornamental and easy-care fern for a moist, shaded or partly shaded border.

About the genus

Doodia, the rasp-ferns, are compact, tufted, evergreen ferns mainly from Australasia, with sword-shaped fronds bearing prickle-toothed, leathery segments, and new fronds often emerging in attractive shades of red or orange-pink. Ornamental and reliable ferns for moist, shaded positions.

Plant details

Suggested usesShade gardens, woodland, containers.

Care notes

CultivationPlant in moist, humus-rich soil in shade.
PruningRemove old fronds in spring as new growth emerges.
PropagationDivide established clumps or grow from spores.
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free. Monitor for common garden pests.
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-resistant. Ensure good air circulation.