Ferns

Ferns are classic favorites for shade and woodland areas.  Most are deer resistant and some will grow in sun if they receive ample moisture. We have a wide variety of ferns, both native and otherwise, many of which are evergreen or semi-evergreen. Most ferns prefer moist soil, but there are several that are drought tolerant once established.  Ferns are best planted in fall or in spring after they have broken dormancy.  Old fronds may be removed in early spring before the new growth appears.

Select Plant Type:
Botanical Name     Common Name
A B C D E F-G H I J-L M-O P Q R S T U-Z ALL
Matteuccia struthiopteris
Common Name: Ostrich Fern
Erect vase-shaped native fern with lance-shaped, divided fronds. Prefers slightly acidic, loamy soil. Does well even in boggy locations. Deciduous. Deer resistant.

Microlepia strigosa
Common Name: Lace Fern
This clump former has erect, arching lacy fronds. Very pretty! A vigorous grower, it prefers moist soil. Deciduous. Deer resistant.

Onoclea sensibilis
Common Name: Sensitive Fern
Broad green fronds can form large spreading colonies in wet soils. Sun tolerant with ample moisture. Attractive spore stalk in winter. Deciduous. Native. Deer resistant.

Osmunda cinnamomea
Common Name: Cinnamon Fern
Unfurling young fronds are an attractive wooly ,cinnamon brown while older fronds are bluish-green. Will grow in light to deep shade and even sun if the soil is constantly wet. Good accent fern. Upright habit. Native. Deciduous. Deer resistant.

Osmunda regalis
Common Name: Royal Fern
Bold textured fern with divided bright green foliage and rust colored flower spikes. Forms massive clumps in boggy locations. Sun tolerant with ample moisture. Deciduous. Native. Deer resistant.