December Plant of the Month

An excellent evergreen fern native to western North America, where it is one of the most abundant ferns to inhabit woodland floors. Also known as the Western Sword Fern, it is aptly named, with long sword-like fronds making a lovely shape as they curve gracefully outwards from the central crown. 

My specimen has grown in size to about 80cm high and wide. It’s really noticeable in the depths of winter at the bottom of my garden where it sits in semi shade, with mid green fronds in front of a dark ivy hedge. A rich moist soil is best, but this fern will also withstand dry conditions and full shade.

The old fronds will need to be cut back in spring to see the beauty of the newly emerging scaly croziers but, until then, enjoy this elegant evergreen.

Posts from the blog:

Adding annuals

A selection of recommended annuals.

The bees are a’ buzzing!

The garden is alive with bees as they gather pollen from a whole host of flowers.

Unfurling ferns

Take the opportunity to get close up to your ferns and admire the fascinating structures that exist within this family of ancient plants.

Plant sleuth

This mystery plant had leaves that were still lush in October but with no sign of any flowers to give me a lead.