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Key characteristics

Family: Blechnaceae
Height: 12 to 24 inches
Width: 12 to 18 inches
Flower color: Not applicable; ferns do not produce flowers
Foliage color: Dark green
Bloom time: Not applicable; ferns reproduce via spores
Light: Partial shade to full shade
Water: Moderate
Maintenance: Low; minimal care needed
Growing zone: USDA Zones 5 to 9
Wildlife: Attracts beneficial insects, and provides habitat for small wildlife

Groundcovers

Blechnum penna-marina

Alpine Water Fern

Blechnum penna-marina, commonly known as the alpine water fern, is a delicate and attractive fern native to the cooler regions of the Southern Hemisphere, particularly found in New Zealand, Tasmania, and parts of South America. This fern is characterized by its lush, feathery fronds that can create a beautiful, textured ground cover in shaded or partially shaded areas. During the colder months, the fronds may exhibit slight color changes, occasionally developing a rusty bronze or reddish hue.

Light

Partial shade to full shade

Water

Moderate

Bloom time

Not applicable; ferns reproduce via spores

Find this plant

Works well in

Rock Gardens
Woodland Gardens
Borders
Deer-Prone Areas

Companion plants

Hellebores · Japanese forest grasses · Primroses · Astilbes · Ligularia · Creeping Jenny

Design tip

Use this fern to connect separate planting groups by carrying its fine texture through shaded areas of the garden. Repeating the graceful fronds creates visual flow, making individual beds feel like parts of one cohesive woodland landscape.