Southern Beech Fern Phegopteris hexagonoptera

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. 

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 10-30 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 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.