About
Phegopteris decursive-pinnata, the Japanese beech fern, is a deciduous fern producing upright to arching, narrow, pinnatifid fronds to 80 cm long. Fronds are pale green when young, maturing to a slight blue-green tint. An elegant fern for a shaded, moist, woodland border.
About the genus
Phegopteris are graceful, deciduous ferns with creeping rhizomes and deeply pinnatifid or triangular, often pale-green fronds. Grown in shaded, moist, woodland borders.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull shade, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Poorly-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeFerns
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants
Native toChina, Japan
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moist soils in part or full shade. Spreads slowly by rhizomes. See how to grow ferns for further advice
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by spores, sown as soon as ripe, or by division in spring
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free