Phegopteris hexagonoptera Play pronunciation

Broad beech fern is a native, herbaceous perennial fern in the spleenwort family (Aspleniaceae). Its origin is in eastern North America, including North Carolina. The species epithet, Latin for “six-sided wing,” refers to the unusual connection between opposite pinnae. The blade is connected across the stipe to form a hexagonal “wing.”

It prefers moist, rich, well-drained, acidic soils in partial to deep shade.  However, it can sometimes be found in sunny open areas with dry or semi-moist soil. It grows 1.5 to 2 feet in height and width. Recommended propagation is by division. It grows rapidly and is low maintenance.

The deciduous leaves are produced directly from the shallow rhizomes in spring, and it can spread rapidly and become weedy. The fronds of this plant are 10 to 30 inches long and spread out in rows or loose clusters. Blades are up to 13 inches long, are approximately the same width, and are most often 2-pinnatifid. The fronds are a dull green color, slightly hairy on the lower surface and broadly triangular. There are 12 or more nearly opposite pairs of pinna that are tapered at both ends; the lowest pair is larger, broader and often pointing downward. All the pinnae are connected along the rachis by a narrow wing of blade tissue. In the fall, the fronds turn pale yellow.

This is a medium-sized attractive plant that can be used in moist woodland and naturalized areas or in a shady native garden. It rapidly forms colonies as ground cover. It can be used in mass plantings or as a border.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  No serious problems.

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

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