Close-up of green ferns

Shade Ferns For Sale

Lush Ferns Thrive in Shade

Shade ferns are simple to grow since they do well in low-light, woodland areas and need little care. After you plant them in moist, well-drained soil, they come back each year with lush, graceful leaves that make any shady spot look softer.

Skip to results list
10 items
Column grid
Plants for Zone:
Shade Hardy
Large Fern
Plantable in Patio Containers
Fast Growing
When To Plant
Indoor Friendly
Column grid

Filter

Plants for Zone:
Shade Hardy
Large Fern
Plantable in Patio Containers
Fast Growing
When To Plant
Indoor Friendly
  • Giant Ostrich Fern

    Giant Ostrich Fern

    $7.99

    Giant Ostrich Fern

    $7.99
    Planting Zones: 3-7
  • Christmas Fern

    Christmas Fern

    $6.99

    Christmas Fern

    $6.99
    Planting Zones: 3-9
  • Fiddlehead Fern

    Fiddlehead Fern

    $7.49

    Fiddlehead Fern

    $7.49
    Planting Zones: 3-8
  • Lady Fern

    Lady Fern

    $6.79

    Lady Fern

    $6.79
    Planting Zones: 3-9
  • Bracken Fern

    Bracken Fern

    $7.49

    Bracken Fern

    $7.49
    Planting Zones: 3-9
  • Maidenhair Fern

    Maidenhair Fern

    $6.49

    Maidenhair Fern

    $6.49
    Planting Zones: 3-9
  • Hay Scented Fern

    Hay Scented Fern

    $6.99

    Hay Scented Fern

    $6.99
    Planting Zones: 3-8
  • Walking Fern

    Walking Fern

    $6.99

    Walking Fern

    $6.99
    Planting Zones: 4-8
  • New York Fern

    New York Fern

    $6.99

    New York Fern

    $6.99
    Planting Zones: 3-8
  • Sensitive Fern

    Sensitive Fern

    $6.69

    Sensitive Fern

    $6.69
    Planting Zones: 3-9

Shade Ferns – Timeless Texture for Cool, Quiet Spaces

Not every part of a garden needs full sun to shine. Some of the most peaceful, inviting spaces are tucked in the shade—and ferns are made for those places. Our collection of shade ferns features hardy, graceful varieties that thrive in low-light conditions, bringing a sense of calm to woodlands, borders, and tucked-away corners.

Elegant Greenery Where Sunlight Is Sparse

Shade ferns are unmatched for their ability to fill dim spaces with soft, layered texture. These plants don’t need much attention—just moisture, a bit of patience, and a place out of the hot afternoon sun. Whether you’re lining a shady path or filling in under trees, the ferns we offer return year after year, spreading gently and enriching the soil as they grow.

Top Shade Selections Loved by Homeowners

  • Christmas – Evergreen, tough, and ideal for four-season interest.
  • Lady – Lacy fronds that thrive in woodland settings and dappled light.
  • Cinnamon – Known for its tall, upright growth and warm-toned fiddleheads.
  • Maidenhair  – Delicate and airy with black stems and fan-shaped leaves.

Why Buy Shade Ferns from TN Nursery?

We grow our ferns naturally, in real soil and real conditions—so when you plant them, they know how to thrive. Each order is shipped bare-root, fresh from our farm, and carefully selected for strong roots and reliable performance. Whether you're designing a quiet woodland retreat or need erosion control on a shaded slope, our shade ferns are a lasting, low-maintenance choice.


FAQ

Which fern does best in shade?

The ostrich ferndoes best in shade and thrives in cool, moist areas with rich soil. It prefers indirect light, mimicking its natural woodland habitat. This hardy, low-maintenance fern produces tall, graceful fronds and adds lush greenery to shaded gardens.

What ferns do deer not eat?

Deer typically avoid Christmas ferns, ostrich ferns, and lady ferns because of their texture and taste. These hardy, shade-loving ferns are naturally deer-resistant and thrive with little care. They’re perfect for adding rich greenery to woodland or shaded gardens without worrying about browsing.

What fern does not need sunlight?

The maidenhair fern is one of the best ferns for growing without sunlight. It thrives in low-light or shaded areas with consistent moisture and humidity. This delicate, easy-to-grow fern adds graceful greenery to indoor spaces or shaded garden spots.