Fiddlehead Ferns For Sale
The Fiddlehead Fern is a woodland beauty with fronds resembling the plumage of an ostrich. This fern is native to North America and is naturally found in shaded, moist habitats such as stream and river banks
This fern is large, growing up to 6 ft tall and around 4 ft across, and easily naturalizes, forming colonies of lush, feathery fronds. The sterile fronds emerge upward from the rhizome and gently arch outward from the base, while the fertile brown fronds develop erect from the center of the plant. This fern is deciduous, with fronds beginning to die back after the first frost in autumn. However, the fertile fronds remain throughout the winter, adding a lovely brown tone to the landscape
Fiddlehead Fern Plant Details
Family: Onocleaceae
Hardiness Zones: 3–7
Light Requirement: Partial Shade to Full Shade
Water Needs: Moderate to high
Height: 3 - 6 ft
Spread: 2 - 4 ft
Growth Rate: Fast
Bloom Time: NA
Flower Color: NA
Wildlife Value: Provides cover and habitat for wildlife in woodland ecosystems
Not only is this fern visually stunning, but it is also edible and well-known for its tasty young fiddleheads. When cooked, they have a taste similar to green beans and are rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fats. The rhizome is also edible and can be roasted after peeling for a delicious treat
The Fiddlehead plant recently received the Award of Merit from the Royal Horticultural Society for its ornamental value and is a gardener’s favorite across North America. Easy to grow and maintain, this fern makes a great underplanting option and is a wonderful addition to a shaded garden or woodland landscape
Landscape Uses and Maintenance
It is easy to grow and is virtually pest and disease-free. Although it prefers shaded environments, it also tolerates partial shade locations. Plant this vivacious fern in a protected area, as strong wind can damage the fronds
While maintenance of the Fiddlehead fern is an easy-to-do task, it does not tolerate summer heat. Make sure that the soil stays moist. Applying a layer of mulch in the summertime will help retain moisture and keep the roots cool. This fern can be propagated by division in spring or by sowing the developed spores
Characteristics
Easy to maintain, feathery fronds, fiddleheads. Plant this multipurpose fern in your garden to enjoy its stunningly lush green fronds and deliciously tasty fiddleheads year after year. Shop for the Fiddlehead Fern online at TN Nursery. For 68 years, we have served the landscaping industry and homeowners with specimen plants
Customer Reviews
The Fiddlehead Ferns from TN Nursery have enhanced my garden tremendously. Their delicate, curled fronds bring beauty and elegance to my shaded spaces. Every plant was healthy and ready to grow.
I love the Fiddlehead Ferns I ordered from TN Nursery. They arrived healthy and vigorous, and their unique growth adds something special to my landscaping. Excellent plants and excellent service.
The Fiddlehead Ferns from TN Nursery are both beautiful and hardy. Their lush greenery brightens my shade garden, and they require very little care. I will definitely be ordering more.
I was impressed with the quality of the Fiddlehead Ferns I received. They were carefully packaged, very healthy, and have already adapted to my soil. TN Nursery truly delivers top-quality plants.
The Fiddlehead Ferns I purchased from TN Nursery add real woodland charm to my property. Their curled fronds are so distinctive, and they’re growing strong in my shaded garden areas.
Do fiddlehead ferns like sun or shade?
Fiddlehead ferns prefer shade or partial shade for best growth. They thrive in moist, rich soil and cool conditions. In the right spot, they unfurl beautifully and grow effortlessly.
Where do fiddlehead ferns grow in the US?
Fiddlehead ferns grow naturally across the eastern and northern United States. They thrive in shaded woodlands, near streams, and moist forest areas. With similar garden conditions, they grow easily and look lush and vibrant.
Do fiddlehead ferns spread?
Yes, fiddlehead ferns spread slowly through underground rhizomes. Over time, they form graceful clumps that fill shady garden areas. With moisture and care, they expand beautifully and require little maintenance.
Exposure
Fiddlehead ferns thrive in low to moderate light conditions. They prefer indirect or filtered light, which mimics their natural woodland habitat. Dodge direct daylight, as it can scorch their delicate fronds. Ideal locations include shaded areas or dappled sunlight.
Height at Maturity
Over 2 Feet
Usage
Shade Border Plants
Shipped As
Bare-root
Ships
USPS
Planting Zones
3-7
How To Grow
How to Grow and Care for Bare Root Fern Rhizomes
Bare root fern rhizomes are easy to plant and bring lush, woodland beauty to shaded or partially shaded areas. To begin, soak the rhizomes in water for 1–2 hours before planting to help rehydrate them. Choose a planting site with rich, well-draining soil high in organic matter. Ferns thrive in moisture-retentive soil, so amending with compost or leaf mold is ideal.
Dig a shallow hole wide enough to spread the rhizome out horizontally, and place it just below the soil surface with the growing tips (or “eyes”) facing upward. Cover lightly with soil, press gently, and water thoroughly. Keep the soil evenly moist—never dry or soggy—while the fern establishes.
Mulch with leaf litter or pine needles to conserve moisture and mimic the fern’s natural habitat. Avoid direct sunlight, as most native ferns prefer cool, shaded conditions. With patience and proper care, the rhizomes will send up new fronds and form a graceful, low-maintenance colony that returns year after year.
