About
A low-growing, deciduous fern that forms a subtle green carpet between 10-40cm in height. intricately divided, soft fronds, up to 14cm long, emerge from a creeping underground network of rhizomes.
About the genus
Gymnocarpium are small deciduous ferns with a slender creeping rhizome, and much-divided, triangular to ovate fronds
Growing conditions
SunlightFull shade, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeFerns, Herbaceous Perennial
HabitMatforming, Tufted
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesWildlife gardens
Native toTemperate N Hemisphere
Care notes
CultivationGrows well in most moist but free draining soil in shade or partial shade. See how to grow ferns for further advice
PruningNo pruning required, but can remove and dead or damaged fronds as required
PropagationPropagate by sowing spores as soon as ripe, or by division in spring
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free