Northwest Blooms · Perennials
Blechnum spicant
Deer Fern
- Family
- Blechnaceae
- Height
- 12 to 24 inches
- Width
- 12 to 24 inches
- Flower color
- Non-flowering
- Foliage color
- Glossy dark green, evergreen
- Bloom time
- Non-flowering
- Light
- Part shade to full shade
- Water
- Medium
- Maintenance
- Low; remove old fronds as needed
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 5 to 8
- Wildlife
- Provides cover for small birds and mammals; deer-resistant
About this plant
Blechnum spicant is an evergreen fern characterized by its two distinct types of fronds. The sterile fronds form a low-growing rosette of dark green, leathery leaves that lie close to the ground, while the fertile fronds rise upright from the center and are more slender and divided. Although ferns do not produce flowers, their vibrant, textured foliage provides year-round visual interest, particularly in shaded or woodland settings.
Native to Europe, North America, and parts of Asia, Blechnum spicant thrives in temperate climates, often found in damp, shaded environments like woodlands and streambanks. Its ability to tolerate acidic soils and its elegant, structured appearance make it a popular choice for naturalistic gardens and borders.
Works well in
Borders · Shade Gardens · Woodland Gardens · Bird Gardens · Containers
Companion plants
Hellebores · Japanese forest grass · Astilbes · Heucheras · Siberian bugloss · Sweet woodruff
Design tip
Foliage and form do most of the work here, so lean on texture and repetition rather than one flowering moment. Keep it out of hot afternoon sun and layer it with woodland companions for a full, settled look.
