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Key characteristics

Family: Blechnaceae
Height: 2 to 4 ft
Width: 4 to 8 ft
Flower color: Non-flowering
Foliage color: Evergreen, arching fronds that emerge vivid red, and gradually mature to rich deep green
Bloom time: Not applicable
Light: Partial shade to full shade
Water: Moderate to high
Maintenance: Low, remove old fronds in late winter or early spring
Growing zone: USDA zones 7 to 10
Wildlife: Provides excellent ground-level cover and cool, moist microhabitat for amphibians, invertebrates, and other small wildlife

Perennials

Woodwardia unigemmata

Jeweled Chain Fern

Woodwardia unigemmata is an evergreen fern with long, arching, finely divided fronds. New fronds emerge a rich red, age through rusty tones, and finally mature to glossy green. The fronds can grow to impressive length and often drape over banks, rocks, or the edges of shaded borders, giving a lush, cascading presence in woodland or moist garden settings.

Native to moist, mountainous regions of Asia, Woodwardia unigemmata is adapted to high rainfall and shelter.

Light

Partial shade to full shade

Water

Moderate to high

Bloom time

Not applicable

Find this plant

Works well in

Borders
Shade Gardens
Woodland Gardens
Rain Gardens
Cut Flower Gardens

Companion plants

Epimediums · Hostas · Bleeding hearts · Solomon's seal · Lungworts · Wild ginger

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.