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Deer Fern (Struthiopteris [formerly Blechnum] spicant)
Deer Fern (Struthiopteris [formerly Blechnum] spicant)
Synonyms/Also sold as: A recent taxonomic revision has reclassified this fern from the genus Blechnum to the genus Struthiopteris. AKA: Blechnum spicant, Struthiopteris spicant, Deer Fern
The evergreen horizontal sterile fronds have the pinnae set as in the wide blunt teeth of a comb, but occurring on both sides of the rachis. This swirling rosette of ordered symmetry is set off by the very erect linear fertile fronds which arise from the center in mid-summer. Position these ferns in evenly moist acidic soil for best results. These Pacific Northwest natives have not done well in areas with hot humid summers. Blechnum australe is a South African hard fern that seems to take the heat a bit better and is very similar in appearance although it is a colonizer rather than a solitary clumper.
Frond Condition: Evergreen
Mature Height: 12-24" (1-2')
Origin: Pacific Northwest
CulturalRequirements: Partly Shaded, Full Shade, Evenly Moist, Slightly Moist
USDA Zones: 7, 8, 9