Hard Fern Blechnum spicant

Deer Fern is an evergreen herbaceous perennial in the Spleenwort family (Aspleniaceae). Deer Fern is native to Europe, spreading east as far as Japan, and Northwestern North America from Alaska, British Columbia, and south to Idaho, Oregon, and northern California. It is typically found growing along the coast in woods, heaths, moors, mountain grassland and on rocks. The genus name, Blechnum, comes from the classical Greek name for a fern.

Deer Fern prefers acidic, humus-rich moist soil with good drainage and is partial to full shade. It will tolerate poor soil and heavy clay as well as shady sites with adequate moisture. It has ascending rhizomes that spread slowly, although it can also be propagated by division in the spring.

It is winter hardy and resistant to damage from deer and rabbits. This fern is unusual in that it produces two types of fronds; sterile evergreen fronds that are replaced late in the season by taller fertile fronds growing out of the center of the sterile fronds.

This fern would be useful as a ground cover in a shady site. It can also be used in woodlands, and in rock and shade gardens.

Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems: No known diseases or insect pests. However, leaf spot and rust can sometimes occur.

VIDEO Created by NC State Extension's Homegrown series featuring Mark Weathington, Director of JC Raulston Arboretum.