Ferns

Native ferns are a classic plant that can be found in nearly any shade garden. Timeless and elegant, these plants can add lush texture and subtle beauty to the garden year-round. Native ferns are also easy to grow because they are adapted to the region's soils, moisture, and climate. We offer a large assortment of native ferns, including species, cultivars, and some hybrids. Our ferns are guaranteed to ship year-round, making it easy to add them to your garden at the right time for you.

Do native ferns grow well in shade?

Yes, native ferns thrive best in partial to fully shaded areas. Ferns do not flower but reproduce through spores, which can be seen on the underside of the fronds. Their new growth, or fronds, are typically finely feathery, adding texture and movement. Some ferns have bold, more architectural fronds that can be a statement in the landscape. Unlike many plants, ferns thrive in shade or part shade, making them a great choice for areas that get limited sunlight. They also prefer moist soil, but as with all natives, once established, ferns can do well with minimal care and irrigation.

Planting native ferns has many environmental benefits. In natural areas, ferns are often used to help stabilize slopes and reduce erosion and water run-off due to their dense root structure. In the wild, ferns form groundcover that provides habitat and shelter for small wildlife, beneficial insects, and ground-nesting pollinators. Ferns also help sustain a healthy ecosystem by supporting microorganisms in the soil.

Native ferns can be a beautiful addition to any landscape. In a designed garden, they bring a cooling and natural feeling and pair well with other native shade-loving plants, such as wild ginger, trillium, and heuchera. Native ferns will not require any fertilizers or pesticides to be successful, making them a smart choice for your landscape to protect water quality and biodiversity. Plant them along a shaded pathway, underneath trees, or to soften the edge of a pond or garden bed for long-lasting beauty.