Asparagus Ferns– hardy and sun tolerant. Asparagus d. myerii, Asparagus plumosa, Asparagus retrofractus, Asparagus sprengeri

Tree Ferns– Provide height and shelter for delicate plants below

Australian Tree Fern (Cyathea cooperi), Tasmanian Tree Fern (Dicksonia antarctica), Dwarf Tree Fern (Blechnum Silver Lady)

Unique Textures

L to R: Mother Fern (Asplenium bulbiferum),

Lace Fern (Microlepia strigosa)

 

Button Fern (Pellaea rotundifolia)

Sword Fern (Nephrolepsis cordifolia)

 

 

Leather Fern (Rumohra adiantiformis)

Rabbits Foot Fern (Davallia trichomanoides)

 

Dramatic Foliage-

Autumn Fern (Dryopteris erythrosora), Birds Nest Fern (Asplenium nidus), Pteris albolineata, Silver Fern (Pteris argyraea)

    While some ferns can be quite sun tolerant in coastal areas, most prefer light shade, and regular moisture. Plant ferns in soils rich with humus, and feed gently with fertilizers designed for acid loving plants. Add a layer of mulch to keep the roots cool, and conserve moisture. In dry hot weather, foliage will need to be misted with water occasionally. Asparagus plumosa, leather fern, and lace fern are all valuable as cut foliage for flower arrangements.

   Good companion plants for ferns include hydrangeas, fuchsias, azaleas, camellias, impatiens and begonias.