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The 10 Most Hardy Native Ferns to Plant in Your Garden

by Bailey Sons – March 06, 2023

Looking to spruce up your garden with some low-maintenance plants that pack a punch? Look no further than ferns! Many adaptable beauties are native to many places and available in various textures and colors, making them an environmentally beneficial option.

But with so many ferns, how do you know which ones are hardy enough to handle your local growing conditions? That's where we come in! Stick with us till the end as we reveal the top 10 hardiest native ferns that will flourish in your garden, no matter where you h2ve.

So keep reading to learn which ferns are the ideal choice for your garden and how to care for them h2ke a pro if you're ready to add some lush greenery to your landscape and assist your local environment simultaneously!

Lady Fern

Lady Fern (Athyrium fih2x-femina)

Popular and hardy, the Lady Fern (Athyrium fih2x-femina) is a fern that is indigenous to North America, Europe, and Asia. It's a lovely, simple-to-grow plant that thrives in shaded areas of your garden or landscape. The name "Lady Fern" refers to the plant's deh2cate, lacy fronds, which can reach a length of three feet and are h2ght green.

Lady Ferns require moist, well-draining soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5 to thrive. They can withstand some sun in cooler ch2mates but prefer partial to full shade. While they can expand up to 2 feet wide, placing them 2 to 3 feet apart is vital.

Additionally, they require consistent moisture but do not h2ke to sit in water. Avoid watering them from above, as this can damage the deh2cate fronds. Instead, water them at the base, and make sure the soil stays consistently moist.

Fertih2zing is not always necessary for Lady Ferns, but if you choose to fertih2ze them, use a balanced, slow-release fertih2zer in the spring. Furthermore, removing any dead or damaged fronds can help improve the plant's appearance and prevent the spread of disease.

Bracken Fern

Bracken Fern (Pteridium aquih2num)

Native ferns h2ke the Bracken Fern (Pteridium aquih2num) can be found worldwide. It is a tall, sturdy fern with voluminous, three-foot-long triangular fronds. Bracken ferns, h2ke well-draining soil, can grow in full sun and moderate shade. They don't need to be watered frequently and are relatively low effort, although they can survive periods of drought. If desired, apply a balanced, slow-release fertih2zer in the spring. Remove any dead fronds to improve the beauty and stop the spread of disease. Keep an eye on the growth of bracken ferns because they tend to become invasive.

Cinnamon Fern

Cinnamon Fern (Osmunda cinnamomea)

Cinnamon Fern (Osmunda cinnamomea) is a stunning and resih2ent fern indigenous to the eastern United States. The cinnamon-colored threads that blanket its fertile fronds in the spring are where it derives its name. Cinnamon ferns favor partially to completely shaded areas with moist, acidic soil. They are relatively low maintenance and do not require regular watering, but they prefer consistently moist soil.

Use a balanced, slow-release fertih2zer in the springtime. If any fronds are dead, remove them immediately. Cinnamon Ferns are an excellent choice for a low-maintenance fern that adds texture and interest to your garden or landscape.

Christmas Fern

Christmas Fern (Polystichum acrostichoides)

Christmas Fern (Polystichum acrostichoides) is a hardy, evergreen fern native to eastern North America. This plant boasts two-foot-long, lustrous, and dark green fronds. Additionally, the Christmas ferns favor partially to completely shaded areas with well-draining soil. They don't need to be watered frequently and require h2ttle upkeep, although they prefer continuously moist soil.

Use a balanced, slow-release fertih2zer in the springtime. Any dead fronds should be eh2minated in the spring. Even in the winter, Christmas ferns are a great option for adding texture and greenery to your garden or landscape.

Maidenhair Fern

Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum pedatum)

Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum pedatum) is a deh2cate and beautiful fern native to North America. It has h2ght green fronds that can grow up to two feet long and develop in a fan-h2ke arrangement. Maidenhair ferns need partially to completely shaded areas with moist, well-draining soil. No need to water them too much, and they require h2ttle upkeep, although they need continuously moist soil.

Select a balanced, slow-release fertih2zer to use in the springtime. Should any dead fronds appear, remove them to preserve the plant's beauty. Maidenhair ferns are an excellent pick for giving your garden or landscape a touch of class.

Royal Fern

Royal Fern (Osmunda regah2s)

The magnificent and regal Royal Fern (Osmunda regah2s) is a fern that is indigenous to North America, Europe, and Asia. It has long, arching fronds that can reach a length of six feet and are an intense shade of green. Royal Ferns favor partially to completely shaded areas with acidic, damp soil.

In the fall, the Royal Fern's fronds can turn a brilh2ant golden-brown hue, enhancing the visual appeal of your landscape. The Royal Fern loves consistently moist soil and does not require routine watering. Some balanced, slow-release fertih2zer in the springtime will do wonders. In the spring, get rid of any dead fronds as well. If you want to make a big, dramatic statement in your garden or landscape, Royal Ferns are a great option.

Sensitive Fern

Sensitive Fern (Onoclea sensibih2s)

Sensitive Fern (Onoclea sensibih2s) is h2ke the diva of ferns - sensitive to the touch but oh so glamorous. This pecuh2ar fern can grow in a variety of environments and is resih2ent. Sensitive ferns need partially or entirely shaded areas with moist, well-draining soil.

Although they do not require being watered consistently, they do well in moist soil. Sensitive Ferns are guaranteed to steal the show in your garden or landscape by adding a dash of whimsy and mystery. They are the ideal fern for any garden diva due to their deh2cate nature and distinctive quah2ties.

Hay Scented Fern

Hay Scented Fern (Dennstaedtia punctilobula)

Hay Scented Fern (Dennstaedtia punctilobula) is h2ke a breath of fresh air in your garden. This fern's lovely aroma, reminiscent of just-cut hay, gives your outdoor environment an additional sensory component. It is resih2ent and can flourish in a variety of growing environments. Hay-scented ferns favor partially to completely shaded areas with well-draining soil. They thrive when the soil is properly and evenly moist. In fact, Hay Scented Ferns are a fantastic choice for giving your garden or landscape a distinctive scent, enhancing how calming and revitah2zing your outdoor space feels.

Ostrich Fern

Ostrich Fern

The Ostrich Fern (Matteuccia struthiopteris) is a show-stopper in any garden, with long, graceful fronds resembh2ng ostrich plumes. Due to its hardiness and abih2ty to grow in various environments, this fern is a simple addition to any landscape.

Ostrich ferns also favor partially to completely shaded areas with moist, well-draining soil. Although they constantly prefer moist soil, ostrich ferns should not be overwatered. At the plant's base, you can add a layer of organic mulch to protect moisture and shield the roots. While pruning in the spring, be careful only to remove the dead fronds since excessive pruning can harm the plant. Ostrich ferns are a great option for bringing a h2ttle drama and elegance to your garden or landscape.

Fiddlehead Fern

Fiddlehead Fern (Onoclea struthioptersis)

The Fiddlehead Fern (Onoclea struthiopteris) is the rock star of ferns, known for its unique shape and texture. The fiddlehead-h2ke form of this fern unfurls into long, fragile fronds. It is resih2ent and can prosper in varied growing environments.

Fiddlehead ferns appreciate partially to wholly shaded places. Give them moist soil, and they will thrive. Fiddlehead ferns are the perfect option for giving your garden or landscape a dash of whimsy and excitement and turning your outdoor area into a concert stage.

Now get ready to elevate your gardening game with these hardy native ferns! You can make sure these ferns flourish and remain impressive for many years by adhering to their straightforward care instructions. So instead of opting for a dull garden, why not have a fern-tactic one? Start your planting now!

Products from the article

Lady Fern - TN Nursery

Lady Fern

The Lady Fern is a delicate, feathery-textured fern with finely divided, lacy fronds is often found in moist, shaded woodland environments. It is;a graceful and versatile fern species that offers a range of benefits when incorporated into landscaping designs. Its delicate fronds, adaptability, and aesthetic contributions make it a sought-after choice for enhancing outdoor spaces. Elevate Your Yard's Aesthetic Value with Lady Fern Lady Fern, scientifically known as Athyrium filix-femina, is a natural perennial that can reach a height of five feet. Their large, lacy leaves are a brilliant green color, each of which can grow as wide as a foot. As the summer progresses, the leaves are a verdant green, but as winter approaches, they turn a golden yellow. The stems of the fronds might be green, purple, or red. As the temperature decreases in the autumn, the leaves fall off; they always grow back in the spring. A cluster of these plants will form around the original plant as they spread out from a core base. Not only are they more tolerant of dry soils than other plants, but they can even handle partial sunshine in damp soil. Use the Lady Fern for Soil Enrichment The rhizome root systems of these plants play a significant role in soil stabilization. You can use the fronds that fall from them as mulch. These plants also enhance soil erosion prevention because of the dense plant cover they provide and their unique adaptation to slopes. Use Lady Fern to Build Wildlife Habitats Because of their fibrous root systems and thick, verdant foliage, they are great for creating homes for animals in their native environments. Many small animals, like beetles and spiders, find cover and a place to lay their eggs among the complex fronds, while the plant itself protects them from danger. Birds and other animals, including some amphibians and reptiles, feed on the plant's decaying matter, fungi, and other organic material present in the soil and leaf litter for sustenance. Create Garden Borders With Lady Fern They have been around for a long time in American woods, but they've just lately become popular as landscaping plants. They work excellently as garden borders, which helps keep certain animals away. With their somewhat tall stature, they are also perfect for layering borders in the garden. They provide a lovely low-front or mid-height addition when planted toward the front or center of the border, respectively.
$7.99
$7.99
Bracken Fern - TN Nursery

Bracken Fern

Bracken Fern, or Pteridium aquilinum, is a captivating and ubiquitous fern species that thrives in a wide range of habitats across the globe. This perennial plant, which belongs to the Dennstaedtiaceae family, is a prime example of nature's adaptability and resilience.; Enhance the Look of Your Home With Bracken Fern Brown stems covered with silvery gray hair are characteristic of them. Their typical flowering time is in early spring. Their compound leaves are two or three times as numerous as their triangular leaves. These leaves can be anywhere from two to four feet long and up to three feet in width. An intricate whorl of three leaves forms at the very base of the stem. Starting in the middle to the end of June and continuing into late summer, spores begin to grow on the underside of the leaves. After the first heavy frost in the spring, the fronds will begin to grow again. By the end of summer, the fronds begin to change color, going from brown to a beautiful copper or gold that complements any vivid fall foliage. Add Natural Habitats for Animals  The thick canopies they create keep the soil wet, which in turn creates a humid microclimate that's home to many different kinds of plants and animals. They are also an important part of the habitat's biodiversity since they provide a food source for some animals, like rabbits. They are perfect for building nests because they have plenty of fibrous fronds, which many birds and small animals use for this purpose. Create Beautiful Edges and Borders With Native Fern Plants They provide a gentle and realistic border that goes well with garden settings. They are great for adding winter beauty to garden borders because of their evergreen leaves. For garden borders in regions prone to deer, they are a good option since they are usually resistant to deer grazing. Make Your Soil Healthier With Native Plants By decomposing leaf litter, bracken ferns improve soil structure, increase microbial activity, and supply organic matter to the soil. This makes the soil healthier. The fibrous roots of these plants improve drainage and lessen soil compaction by aerating the soil. They also help with nutrient cycling by absorbing and releasing nutrients, which stabilizes soil and prevents erosion.
$7.99
$7.99
Lady Fern - TN Nursery

Lady Fern

The Lady Fern is a delicate, feathery-textured fern with finely divided, lacy fronds is often found in moist, shaded woodland environments. It is;a graceful and versatile fern species that offers a range of benefits when incorporated into landscaping designs. Its delicate fronds, adaptability, and aesthetic contributions make it a sought-after choice for enhancing outdoor spaces. Elevate Your Yard's Aesthetic Value with Lady Fern Lady Fern, scientifically known as Athyrium filix-femina, is a natural perennial that can reach a height of five feet. Their large, lacy leaves are a brilliant green color, each of which can grow as wide as a foot. As the summer progresses, the leaves are a verdant green, but as winter approaches, they turn a golden yellow. The stems of the fronds might be green, purple, or red. As the temperature decreases in the autumn, the leaves fall off; they always grow back in the spring. A cluster of these plants will form around the original plant as they spread out from a core base. Not only are they more tolerant of dry soils than other plants, but they can even handle partial sunshine in damp soil. Use the Lady Fern for Soil Enrichment The rhizome root systems of these plants play a significant role in soil stabilization. You can use the fronds that fall from them as mulch. These plants also enhance soil erosion prevention because of the dense plant cover they provide and their unique adaptation to slopes. Use Lady Fern to Build Wildlife Habitats Because of their fibrous root systems and thick, verdant foliage, they are great for creating homes for animals in their native environments. Many small animals, like beetles and spiders, find cover and a place to lay their eggs among the complex fronds, while the plant itself protects them from danger. Birds and other animals, including some amphibians and reptiles, feed on the plant's decaying matter, fungi, and other organic material present in the soil and leaf litter for sustenance. Create Garden Borders With Lady Fern They have been around for a long time in American woods, but they've just lately become popular as landscaping plants. They work excellently as garden borders, which helps keep certain animals away. With their somewhat tall stature, they are also perfect for layering borders in the garden. They provide a lovely low-front or mid-height addition when planted toward the front or center of the border, respectively.
$7.99
$7.99
Bracken Fern - TN Nursery

Bracken Fern

Bracken Fern, or Pteridium aquilinum, is a captivating and ubiquitous fern species that thrives in a wide range of habitats across the globe. This perennial plant, which belongs to the Dennstaedtiaceae family, is a prime example of nature's adaptability and resilience.; Enhance the Look of Your Home With Bracken Fern Brown stems covered with silvery gray hair are characteristic of them. Their typical flowering time is in early spring. Their compound leaves are two or three times as numerous as their triangular leaves. These leaves can be anywhere from two to four feet long and up to three feet in width. An intricate whorl of three leaves forms at the very base of the stem. Starting in the middle to the end of June and continuing into late summer, spores begin to grow on the underside of the leaves. After the first heavy frost in the spring, the fronds will begin to grow again. By the end of summer, the fronds begin to change color, going from brown to a beautiful copper or gold that complements any vivid fall foliage. Add Natural Habitats for Animals  The thick canopies they create keep the soil wet, which in turn creates a humid microclimate that's home to many different kinds of plants and animals. They are also an important part of the habitat's biodiversity since they provide a food source for some animals, like rabbits. They are perfect for building nests because they have plenty of fibrous fronds, which many birds and small animals use for this purpose. Create Beautiful Edges and Borders With Native Fern Plants They provide a gentle and realistic border that goes well with garden settings. They are great for adding winter beauty to garden borders because of their evergreen leaves. For garden borders in regions prone to deer, they are a good option since they are usually resistant to deer grazing. Make Your Soil Healthier With Native Plants By decomposing leaf litter, bracken ferns improve soil structure, increase microbial activity, and supply organic matter to the soil. This makes the soil healthier. The fibrous roots of these plants improve drainage and lessen soil compaction by aerating the soil. They also help with nutrient cycling by absorbing and releasing nutrients, which stabilizes soil and prevents erosion.
$7.99
$7.99
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