Chinese Lace Fern Selaginella braunii

Arborvitae Fern, though it produces spores is not a true fern but a prehistoric plant called a club moss.  Its thick scaly leaves, that resemble Arborvitae or Cedar, form a matting groundcover quickly shading out weeds.  grows in partial shade to shade, in well-drained, organically enriched soil. Though it likes shady moist spots, it does not withstand standing water.  It is an easy plant to grow and looks great forming a skirt around taller plants in containers and hanging baskets.  Needs good drainage when grown in containers.  Small varieties are great in terrariums.  After a harsh winter if fronds appear ragged cut it back, apply an all purpose slow-release fertilizer, and new growth will appear quickly.  The clumps can be divided any time of year or cutting root easily in damp soil.

Insects, Diseases and Other Plant Problems:  Can form a dense ground cover that could eliminate other vegetation.