Overview

Pellaea atropurpurea is a fern in the genus Pellaea, part of the Pteridaceae family. Pellaea atropurpurea grows best in partial shade and shade, and tolerates rocky and well-drained soils. Suggested uses include rock gardens, crevices and shade gardens. It is native to Ontario and Quebec.

About

Pellaea atropurpurea is a fern adapted to rocky, well-drained crevices and sheltered shady sites. It produces its fronds through spring and summer and prefers partial shade to full shade. Plant in dry to medium, free-draining soils and give a sheltered aspect to protect the fronds. Suited to rock gardens, crevices and shade borders where drainage is good.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Pellaea atropurpurea

In the garden

Pellaea atropurpurea is a fern native to Ontario and Quebec that favours rocky, well-drained places. In cultivation it is most often used where soil is shallow or stony; its growth period is concentrated in spring and summer when the fronds are produced. Use the species where a fern will need to occupy tight spaces rather than open beds. Give Pellaea atropurpurea partial shade or shade and a sheltered aspect away from strong prevailing winds. It prefers rocky, free-draining substrate with dry to medium soil moisture — avoid clay or waterlogged hollows. Position the crown to sit in a crevice or on a ledge so roots can find pockets of soil; mulch lightly with grit or leaf mould to maintain a drier surface while retaining minimal moisture around the root zone. In a UK garden it suits rock gardens, stone walls, ledges and shaded crevices in borders. Group with other shade-tolerant rock plants where drainage is assured. The fern’s seasonal fronding in spring and summer makes it particularly effective in narrow stone gaps where broader perennials cannot establish.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Pellaea

Sunlight

partial shade, shade

Soil type

rocky, well-drained

Soil moisture

dry to medium

Exposure

sheltered

Plant details

Pellaea atropurpurea size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

Fern

Suggested uses

rock gardens, crevices, shade gardens

Native to

Ontario, Quebec

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Pellaea atropurpurea

Cultivation

Prefers rocky, well-drained soil in shaded or partially shaded locations. Avoid waterlogged conditions.

Pruning

Remove dead or damaged fronds to maintain appearance.

Propagation

Spores

Frequently asked questions