Blechnum spicant

Hard Fern

The evergreen Blechnum spicant, or Hard Fern, forms neat tufts of narrow, glossy fronds that remain attractive all year. Its sterile fronds spread low while the fertile ones stand upright, creating a pleasing textural contrast. A small, RHS Award of Garden Merit fern, it thrives in shaded Irish gardens where its steady greenery enhances borders or underplantings.

Size

Max Height

0.1 m — 0.5 m

Max Spread

0.1 m — 0.5 m

Growth Habit

Forms dense upright tufts or clusters of leaves and stems.

Planting Position

Sunlight i Indicates how much direct sunlight the plant needs each day. Full sun means 6+ hours, part shade is filtered or morning sun, and full shade is little to no direct sun.

Full Shade Part Shade

Aspect i Aspect refers to the direction the planting spot faces (north, south, east or west). It affects light levels, warmth and exposure.

North South East West

Exposure i Exposure describes how sheltered or exposed a plant’s position is, particularly to wind and weather.

Exposed / Sheltered

Hardiness i Hardiness indicates how well a plant tolerates cold conditions outdoors. Higher ratings generally mean greater frost tolerance.

(−20 to −15 °C) Very cold-hardy

Ideal Soil Conditions

Soil Type i Soil type describes the texture of the soil (clay, sand, loam, chalk). This affects drainage, nutrients and how roots grow.

Clay Loam

Soil Moisture i Soil moisture tells you how wet or dry the soil should be for best growth. Match this to your garden conditions for healthier plants.

Moist but permeable / Poorly-drained / Free draining

Soil pH i Soil pH measures how acidic or alkaline the soil is. It affects nutrient availability and can impact plant growth.

Acid Neutral

Plant Uses & Merits

Uses

Flower Borders
Underplanting

Merits

Generally disease-free
Generally pest-free
RHS | Award Of Garden Merit

Blechnum spicant

Hard Fern

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Blechnum spicant

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