Blechnum spicant – A Classic Evergreen Native Fern
Blechnum spicant, commonly known as the Hard Fern, is a distinctive, evergreen native fern valued for its two-tiered frond structure—with flat, spreading sterile fronds forming a rosette and upright fertile fronds rising from the centre. Its deep green foliage provides year-round structure, texture, and natural beauty, making it a perfect choice for woodland gardens, shaded borders, and naturalistic planting schemes. Hardy, elegant, and low-maintenance, this fern brings timeless woodland character to any garden.
Why Grow Blechnum spicant?
Evergreen Foliage – Provides year-round structure and colour.
Unique Frond Form – Distinctive flat and upright frond structure.
Native Woodland Plant – Ideal for naturalistic and wildlife gardens.
Shade Loving – Thrives in shaded and woodland environments.
Low Maintenance – Hardy, reliable, and easy to grow.
Height and Spread
Typically grows to 30–50cm (12–20in) in height, with a spread of 40–60cm (16–24in).
Where to Site Your Blechnum spicant
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Woodland Gardens: Perfect for naturalistic planting
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Shaded Borders: Adds structure and texture
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Underplanting: Ideal beneath trees and shrubs
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Wildlife Gardens: Supports biodiversity
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Naturalistic Schemes: Excellent for forest-style planting
How to Grow and Care
Soil – Prefers moist, acidic, well-drained soil rich in organic matter.
Light – Partial to full shade.
Watering – Keep soil consistently moist, especially in dry periods.
Maintenance
Pruning: Remove old or damaged fronds in spring.
Mulching: Improves soil moisture retention and soil health.
Pests & Diseases: Generally pest- and disease-free.
Perfect Plant Combinations
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Shade Perennials: Hosta, Tiarella, Brunnera
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Ferns: Dryopteris, Athyrium
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Shrubs: Rhododendron, Azalea
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Bulbs: Snowdrops, Bluebells
Conclusion
Blechnum spicant is a classic evergreen fern with elegant structure and year-round appeal. Perfect for woodland gardens and shaded planting schemes, it delivers natural beauty, texture, and low-maintenance performance.
Does the height include the pot?
No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description
How long does delivery take?
Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.
Where will you leave my plants?
We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.
