About
Histiopteris incisa, the bat's-wing fern, is a wide-spreading, terrestrial fern producing large, broadly triangular, bi-pinnate fronds with broad, pale-green segments that give a distinctive, open, bat-wing appearance. A rewarding and ornamental fern for a shaded, moist, warm conservatory or sheltered garden.
About the genus
Histiopteris are large, terrestrial ferns with broadly triangular, bi-pinnate fronds. Native to tropical and subtropical habitats worldwide, they are grown in shaded, moist conditions in warm gardens and glasshouses.
Plant details
Height4-8 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Suggested usesMixed borders, hedging, foundation planting.
Native toHimalaya, W China
Care notes
CultivationWill suit most sheltered walls including cool shade but to produce flowers it needs some sun
PruningPruning group 11 in spring
PropagationPropagate by seed, layering or semi-hardwood cuttings
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free