Purple-stemmed Cliffbrake

A small but charming evergreen fern, Pellaea atropurpurea is an excellent choice for the specialist grower or anyone with a well-drained rock garden. Native to North America but perfectly suitable for UK cultivation, it is named for its distinctive dark purple to black, wiry stems. The fronds are a muted bluish-green and have a somewhat leathery, waxy texture, which helps the plant conserve moisture. Unlike most ferns, this species is specifically adapted to growing in dry, rocky, alkaline environments. It is often found in the wild growing out of limestone cliffs. In the garden, it must have sharply drained soil and a position where it won't be swamped by larger, more aggressive plants. It reaches only about 20-30cm in height, making it a perfect candidate for a stone trough, a crevice garden, or a tufa wall. While it is hardy (H4/H5), it dislikes excessive winter wetness, so good drainage is the key to success.

Sun: Full sun to partial shade.

Soil: Very well-drained, alkaline, gritty soil.

Hardiness: H4 — down to −10°C.