Fern - Blechnum spicant (Deer Fern)

Deer Fern is not a major attractant for pollinators or other wildlife, but it does offer shelter for small creatures such as insects and provides ground cover in woodland settings. It is generally resistant to deer browsing, making it an excellent choice for areas where deer are common.

Deer Fern is an evergreen perennial, retaining its lush green foliage throughout the year. It provides consistent color and texture in the garden, even during the colder months when most plants have died back.

Woodland and shade gardens

Native plant or fern collections

Moist, shaded slopes or banks

Groundcover under trees or large shrubs

Naturalistic and rain gardens

The fronds of Blechnum spicant are leathery and finely textured, giving the plant a lush, dense appearance. The dark green, glossy fronds can grow up to 12-24 inches in length, with sterile fronds arching gracefully and fertile fronds standing erect.

• Flowering Season: As a fern, Blechnum spicant does not produce flowers. Instead, it reproduces via spores, which are found on its fertile fronds.

• Frond Description: Deer Fern features two distinct types of fronds:

1. Sterile Fronds: These are shorter, arching, and form a dense, evergreen rosette of dark green, glossy foliage that stays close to the ground.

2. Fertile Fronds: Taller, upright, and narrower, the fertile fronds rise from the center of the plant and bear spores on their undersides. They turn brown in the fall and stand out against the dense, green foliage of the sterile fronds.

• When to Plant: Plant in early spring or fall to give the fern time to establish before extreme heat or cold.
• How to Plant: Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and plant the fern at the same depth as it was in its container. Ensure that the crown sits just at or slightly above soil level. Space plants about 18-24 inches apart for optimal growth.

Pruning is minimal for Deer Fern. Simply remove dead or damaged fronds in early spring to keep the plant looking tidy and to make room for new growth. Fertile fronds that have turned brown can also be trimmed back in fall or left for winter interest.

Deer Fern thrives in consistently moist, well-drained soil. It prefers regular watering, especially during dry spells, but does not tolerate waterlogged conditions. Once established, it can handle periods of drought but will perform best with steady moisture.

Blechnum spicant performs best in partial to full shade, making it perfect for woodland or shaded garden areas. It can tolerate dappled sunlight but needs protection from harsh, direct afternoon sun, which can scorch the fronds.

There is no need to harvest Deer Fern, as it is grown for its ornamental value rather than flowers or fruit. However, its glossy fronds can be cut and used in floral arrangements for added texture.

Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or a layer of organic compost to support healthy growth. Deer Fern does not require heavy feeding, but a light application each spring will ensure vigorous fronds.

• Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the plant to help retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

• Soil: Deer Fern prefers rich, well-drained soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. It thrives in moist environments and benefits from organic matter added to the soil.

• Disease and Pest Resistance: This fern is resistant to most pests and diseases, making it a low-maintenance choice for gardeners. Ensure proper drainage to avoid root rot, especially in wetter climates.

As a fern, Blechnum spicant reproduces via spores, which are released from the fertile fronds. It does not require pollination and does not attract pollinating insects.

🌱 Foliage & Texture Companions

• Hosta – Large-leaved varieties like ‘Halcyon’ or ‘June’ contrast beautifully with the fine fronds of deer fern
  
• Heuchera (Coral Bells) – Rich colors (burgundy, lime, amber) provide bold contrast in both leaf and form
  
• Tiarella (Foamflower) – Textured foliage with delicate spring flowers; excellent for spreading under trees
  
• Carex (Sedge) – Graceful, grass-like foliage in golds, variegated greens, or blues adds movement
  
• Polystichum munitum (Western Sword Fern) – Larger evergreen fern to layer heights and textures
  

🌸 Flowering Shade Companions

• Astilbe – Feather-like flower spikes in soft pinks, whites, and reds rise elegantly above fern textures
  
• Dicentra spectabilis (Bleeding Heart) – Arching stems and heart-shaped blooms pair well in part-shade gardens
  
• Pulmonaria (Lungwort) – Speckled or silver foliage and blue-pink blooms add early-season color
  
• Brunnera macrophylla (‘Jack Frost’) – Silvery foliage with forget-me-not blue flowers
  
• Anemone nemorosa or A. canadensis – Delicate white blooms in spring and early summer beneath the fern canopy