Netted Chain Fern

The Netted Chain Fern is a handsome deciduous fern that is particularly prized for its ability to grow in very wet, acidic conditions where other plants might fail. It features two distinct types of fronds: the sterile fronds are broad, deeply lobed, and slightly glossy green, resembling those of the Sensitive Fern (Onoclea sensibilis); the fertile fronds are much narrower, more upright, and hold the spore-producing structures in a chain-like pattern on the underside. It spreads relatively quickly via underground rhizomes to form a dense carpet of foliage, typically growing 30-50cm tall. In the UK, it is an excellent plant for naturalising in a bog garden, at the edge of a lake, or in a damp, marshy woodland. While it can handle some dappled sunlight if the ground is very wet, it generally prefers a shaded position. It provides a lush, tropical appearance and its creeping habit makes it effective for erosion control on damp banks. It is fully hardy.

Sun: Partial shade.

Soil: Wet, acidic, organic soil or mud.

Hardiness: H5 — down to −15°C.