Woodwardia fimbriata: Giant Chain Fern

Woodwardia fimbriata, the Giant Chain Fern, is the largest fern native to North America, found in coastal forests from British Columbia to California. It forms a massive, vase-shaped clump of erect, arching, bipinnate fronds that can reach 6-9 feet tall in ideal conditions. The fronds are a deep, glossy green. The sori (spore cases) are arranged in distinctive chain-like lines along the veins, giving the genus its common name.

Plant Profile

Giant Chain Fern requires consistent moisture, humus-rich soil, and shade to part shade. It is a spectacular architectural plant for woodland gardens, stream banks, and boggy areas. In cultivation, it needs ample space to develop its full grandeur. It is evergreen in mild winters but may be deciduous in colder zones. A magnificent, prehistoric-looking specimen for the large shade garden.