Netted Chain Fern

A low-growing, spreading fern of moist woodlands and wet shady locations, with interesting deeply-lobed foliage. As a fern, this species produces no flowers or fruits, but instead reproduces via spores, which appear on the back of fertile fronts in the spring and "sporulate" in July-October. Prefers acid soil and rich conditions, and can often be found growing in wooded swamps, where it creates a lovely, low, glossy, bright green groundcover. Tolerates heavy shade and sandy soil, and is extremely resistant to deer pressure. Spreads enthusiastically by rhizomes to form dense colonies, which create ideal natural cover for small amphibians such as toads, woodland frogs, and salamanders. Quite a bit shorter and glossier than Sensitive Fern (Onoclea sensibilis), for which it is sometimes mistaken.

8-24 inch tall
Plant Hardiness Zones: 6a-9b
Perennial
Deer Resistant

Native Range: ME south to FL, west to TX, and north to MI. Native to Canada in QC, NL, NB, PE, and NS. Considered rare in NH, PA, WV, OH, IN, and MO. Considered extirpated in ME and MI.

Netted Chain Fern in a 3.5 inch pot $19.50

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