Glade Fern Homalosorus pycnocarpos 

Glade Fern: Gardeners across the United States cherish Homalosorus pycnocarpos, or the glade fern, for its attractive, narrow, and lush green fronds.  

This species is a native plant from North America, originating in the United States and Canada. You might also recognize it by two other nicknames: 

● Narrow-leaf spleenwort 

● Narrow-leaved spleenwort

● Narrow-leaved glade fern 

As the name states, this species originated in forest glades, clearings in the forest that typically receive little or filtered sunlight. This common name correctly implies that you should plant this fern in a shaded or partially-shaded part of your yard.  

Glade Fern has an elegant appearance  

A mature glade fern shows off long, elegant fronds, which grow wider than tall. The height generally stays between one to two feet and extends out as much as three feet wide. This compact, petite appearance makes the glade fern perfect for a ground cover plant.  

The plants grow in clusters of five to six plants per grouping in moist, well-drained soil. If they become overly dry, the margins of the leaves will turn brown--signaling to you that it's time to give them some water.  

Homalosorus pycnocarpos stems are a golden-brown color, which provides a lovely contrast against the shiny, bright green fronds. The plant grows narrow fronds that seem to do a carefree dance with every breeze.  

The leaflets of the fronds are also slender. They have a slight blade shape with a gentle curve, giving a feathery appearance.  

Where to Grow Glade Fern in Your Yard 

Glade fern strongly prefers a fully shaded spot--and it is most carefree if you put it in the shade. However, you can also keep it healthy in filtered sunshine or semi-shade garden with careful attention to soil moisture and water when needed.  

If you don't want to put glade fern directly into the ground, you can put it in large, wide planters in a shady location. It instantly breathes life into the darkest, and often most barren, spots in your yard. 

Glade Fern is available online at TN Nursery 

Are you ready to beautify your shade garden with glade ferns? Order from TN Nursery today.