About

This small, long-lived deciduous fern 20-30cm in height, with softly hairy, simply pinnate light green fronds, the pinnae slightly sickle-shaped.

About the genus

Woodsia are small, tufted deciduous ferns with pinnate or 2-pinnate fronds, and are well-suited to a rock garden

Growing conditions

SunlightPartial shade
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectNorth-facing, East-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH7

Plant details

Plant typeFerns
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesGravel garden, Cottage and informal garden, Rock garden

Care notes

CultivationGrow in very well-drained but moist fertile soil in partial shade. Position crowns above soil level and surround with small stones
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by spores or by division when dormant
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free