Overview

Thelypteris limbosperma is a fern in the genus Thelypteris, part of the Thelypteridaceae family. Thelypteris limbosperma grows best in partial shade and shade, and tolerates most soils and acidic and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include woodland gardens, shade gardens and borders. It is native to Europe.

About

Thelypteris limbosperma is a fern native to Europe that favours shaded, sheltered positions. It grows best in moist, well-drained loamy soils with an acidic to neutral pH. Rated H7, it is fully hardy in the UK when sited out of exposed conditions. It is commonly used in woodland and shade gardens as a border or understorey plant.

About the genus

Thelypteris is a genus of ferns in the subfamily Thelypteridoideae, family Thelypteridaceae, order Polypodiales. Two radically different circumscriptions of the genus are in use as of January 2020. In the Pteridophyte Phylogeny Group classification of 2016, the genus is a very small one with about two species.

Wikipedia contributors, "Thelypteris", CC BY-SA 4.0Thelypteris

In the garden

Thelypteris limbosperma is a member of the family Thelypteridaceae and originates from Europe. As a shade-adapted fern, its cultural needs reflect cool, sheltered woodland conditions rather than open, sunny sites. Plant in partial shade or full shade on north, east or west aspects and avoid exposed southerly exposures. Use a moist, well-drained loamy soil with an acidic to neutral pH and position where the planting will be sheltered from strong prevailing winds. The species is rated H7, which corresponds to fully hardy in UK conditions, so it withstands winter cold when given an appropriately protected location. Suggested uses include woodland gardens, shade gardens and borders where consistent soil moisture and protection from harsh sun and wind are available. Place Thelypteris limbosperma where its shade tolerance and preference for moist, loamy ground can contribute to a leafy, ground-level layer in a shaded border or woodland planting.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Thelypteris

Sunlight
Partial shade, Shade
Soil type
Moist, Well-drained, Loamy
Soil pH
Acidic, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist
Aspect
North, East, West
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H7

Plant details

Thelypteris limbosperma size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Fern
Suggested uses
Woodland gardens, Shade gardens, Borders
Native to
Europe

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Thelypteris limbosperma

Cultivation
Prefers shaded, moist woodland conditions; avoid dry or exposed sites.
Pruning
Remove dead or damaged fronds in spring.
Propagation
Spores, Division

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Thelypteris limbosperma?

Prefers shaded, moist woodland conditions; avoid dry or exposed sites.

Where is the best place to plant Thelypteris limbosperma?

Thelypteris limbosperma prefers partial shade and shade. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Thelypteris limbosperma need?

Thelypteris limbosperma is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including moist, well-drained and loamy. It prefers acidic and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist.

How do I prune Thelypteris limbosperma?

Remove dead or damaged fronds in spring.

Is Thelypteris limbosperma hardy in the UK?

Thelypteris limbosperma has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.

How do I propagate Thelypteris limbosperma?

Spores, Division.

More in the Thelypteris genus

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