



Hay Scented Fern
Deer-resistant and pest-free
Enhances garden biodiversity
Ideal for ground cover
Thrives in
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Hay Scented Fern - Dennstaedtia punctilobula
Hay Scented Fern (Dennstaedtia punctilobula) is a native to eastern North America. As the common name suggests, the fern is known for its sweet scent of freshly cut hay which volatilizes when the fern is either crushed or dried. The scent is particularly noticeable in late summer. Imagine drinking a tea on your deck feeling the warm summer breeze pass by accented by the sweet scent of these charming ferns. Add this to this list of life’s little highlights.
Known for its bright, seemingly fluorescent, lime green foliage, this fern grows up to 2 ft tall and 3 ft wide. It is fast growing and will cover wide swaths of land quickly. It forms colonies of lush fronds in no time, creating a beautiful groundcover for your shaded garden or woodland.
Plant Details - Hay Scented Fern
Family: Dennstaedtiaceae
Hardiness Zones: 3–8
Light Requirement: Partial shade to full sun
Water Needs: Moderate
Height: 1.5 - 3 ft
Spread: 3 ft
Growth Rate: Fast
Bloom Time: NA
Flower Color: NA
Wildlife Value: Offers ground cover for wildlife
The gently scalloped pinnae of this fern’s fronds are delicate and lace-like. When in mass, these fronds create a dense groundcover that is soft and inviting. Given the elegance of its fronds, this fern makes a beautiful addition to a cut flower arrangement.
The Hay Scented Fern is deciduous and, in the autumn, its fronds turn from neon green to rust brown, adding another accent color to the landscape which simultaneously encourages you to look forward to warming months. When the fronds unravel in spring, they emerge in the most delicate and feathery coil, adding a playful tenderness to the gardenscape.
Landscape Uses and Maintenance - Hay Scented Fern
This fern is virtually pest and disease-free, and easy to maintain. It grows best in full to part shade, in humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil. However, it will grow across a range of soil conditions, even nutrient poor substrates. Propagate this fern by rhizome division or sowing the spores.
Once the plant is established, it provides ample protection and cover for wildlife. Plant this fern in a shady location of your garden upwind from your favorite sitting area so you can enjoy its rich hay-like scent.
Noteworthy Characteristics
Hay-like scent, dense ground cover, easy to maintain The visually stunning fern with its delightful olfactory appeal is a must have in your garden or woodland landscape. Shop for the Hay Scented Fern online at TN Nursery. For 68 years, we have served the landscaping industry and homeowners with specimen plants.
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Height at Maturity
Under 2 Feet

Care
Hay-scented fern flourishes in well-drained, moist soil. It’s resilient to varying soil conditions but prefers a consistently damp environment. Regular watering is essential, particularly in dry spells. Provide good air circulation around the fern to control fungal issues.

Plant Reproduction
Hay Scented Fern spreads through underground rhizomes and spores
Choose early spring or fall when the soil is moist and cool to plant healthy bare-root ferns. You can also use dormant plants to grow year-round. When you arrive, please soak the roots in water for several hours to rehydrate them. Ferns thrive in moist and shaded areas. Dig a hole wide and deep enough to spread out the roots comfortably. Position the fern so the crown (where the roots meet the fronds) is just at or slightly below ground level. Gently backfill with soil firmly around the roots, and thoroughly water to settle the soil and eliminate air pockets. Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch for weed control and to retain moisture, ensuring the mulch does not touch the crown. Water during dry periods is used to keep soil moist but not soggy. Avoid fertilizing in the first year, as ferns prefer nutrient-rich soil over direct fertilization.
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Lovely Fragrance:
Hay Scented Fern emits a delightful hay-like scent when brushed or crushed, adding a pleasant aroma to your garden.
Deer Resistant:
These ferns are naturally deer-resistant, ensuring your garden remains undisturbed by these animals.
Natural Ground Cover:
These ferns spread rapidly, making them an excellent ground cover for shady areas, preventing soil erosion.
Attractive Foliage:
The delicate, feathery fronds create a lush, green carpet that adds texture and beauty to any landscape.
Caring Tips
How do I care for my Hay Scented Fern?
Each box contains detailed care instructions and information about your product. But here's the basics.
Care Tips
Hay-scented fern flourishes in well-drained, moist soil. It’s resilient to varying soil conditions but prefers a consistently damp environment. Regular watering is essential, particularly in dry spells. Provide good air circulation around the fern to control fungal issues.
Light Requirements
Hay Scented Fern (Dennstaedtia punctilobula) thrives in partial to full shade. It prefers a relaxed, moist environment with filtered light or dappled shade, making it ideal for woodland gardens or shaded areas with adequate moisture.
Hardy Planting Zones
3 • 4 • 5 • 6 • 7 • 8
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