Homalosorus pycnocarpos

The glade fern is a large deciduous plant in the spleenwort family (Aspleniaceae). It is native to eastern Canada and the eastern half of the U.S.A., where it grows in rich, mesic deciduous forests, around seeps, along streams and at the base of sloped terrain. The species epithet means “dense fruit” and likely references the dense arrangement of sori along the veins of the fertile fronds.

The glade fern likes dappled shade to deep shade. It grows well in high organic soil with good drainage. It is tolerant of alkaline, neutral and acidic pH soil. It spreads by creeping rhizomes and prefers continuous moisture. The fronds will turn brown in low moisture conditions. Large colonies can form over time. 

This is an elegant fern with attractive shiny leaves. The arching fronds can grow up to 2.5 feet long and have 20 to 40 pairs of pinnae which are alternately arranged.  It can be identified by its tall, narrow, bright green fronds, which are only once-pinnate. Fertile fronds have narrower pinnae than sterile frond. The clusters of sori on the undersides of the fertile fronds are arranged in a distinctive herringbone pattern. Sterile fronds appear first in the springtime; fertile fronds will appear as the growing season progresses.  

The glade fern can grow in native, shade or water gardens. It can be grown as a specimen, in small groups or in mass plantings.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  No serious issues, however, tender fronds can be damaged by slugs and snails. The foliage can turn brown if the soil is allowed to remain dry for extended periods. 

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