Bramble Fern Hypolepis barringtonii

Creeping bramble fern is a rhizomatous, herbaceous perennial fern of the bracken family (Dennstaedtiaceae). It is endemic to Florida. This species was recently recognized as distinct from the more widespread Hypolepis repens, which occurs in Mexico and the American tropics. The species epithet commemorates American pteridologist Dr. David Stanley Barrington of the University of Vermont.

Creeping bramble fern grows in partial to deep shade and can tolerate moist soil but needs good drainage. It prefers humus-rich soil. It can grow in dappled sun or deep shade. The bramble fern spreads and can grow 3 to 8 feet tall and 3 to 5 feet wide. It has the ability to form large colonies.  

Creeping bramble fern has large leaves, rather long, prickly petioles and creeping rhizomes and naturally occurs in well-drained moist, open woods with wet soil.  The weight of the large leaves is often supported by surrounding vegetation. A hard freeze will kill it to the ground, but it will regrow in the spring in Zones 8 and higher.

The creeping bramble fern can be grown in woodlands, alongside ponds or streams and on moist slopes. It can be grown in a shade garden or in mass plantings, allowing it to spread and cover the ground.

Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems: No known diseases or pest issues.

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