The 10 Most Hardy Native Ferns to Plant in Your Garden

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.

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

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 fertizer 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 (Pteridium aquih2num)

Native ferns like the Bracken Fern (Pteridium aquih2num) can be found worldwide. It is a tall, sturdy fern with voluminous, three-foot-long triangular fronds. Bracken ferns, like 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 (Osmunda cinnamomea)

Cinnamon Fern is a stunning and resilient fern indigenous to the eastern United States. Its name derives from the cinnamon-colored threads that blanket its fertile fronds in the spring. 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.

In the springtime, use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. 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 (Polystichum acrostichoides)

Christmas Fern 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 little upkeep, although they prefer continuously moist soil.

In the spring, use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Any dead fronds should be eliminated 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 (Adiantum pedatum)

Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum pedatum) is a 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 (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 (Onoclea sensibih2s)

Sensitive Fern is the diva of ferns - sensitive to the touch but oh so glamorous. This fern can grow in a variety of environments and is resistant. 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 (Dennstaedtia punctilobula)

Hay Scented Fern (Dennstaedtia punctilobula) is like 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 resistant 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 revitalizing your outdoor space feels.

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 little drama and elegance to your garden or landscape.

Fiddlehead Fern (Onoclea struthioptersis)

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

Fiddlehead ferns are appreciated partially in 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!