Blechnum chilense | Chinese Hard Fern
DESCRIPTION
Blechnum chilense, commonly known as the Chilean hard fern, is a bold evergreen fern with large, leathery fronds that create a lush, tropical appearance. The fronds emerge as a bright coppery-red before maturing to deep green, adding seasonal interest and contrast. Unlike flowering plants, this fern reproduces via spores found on the undersides of its fronds rather than producing blooms.
Native to Chile and parts of western South America, Blechnum chilense thrives in temperate woodland environments where it forms dense clumps over time. Its robust nature and ability to create a dramatic foliage display make it a valuable choice for shaded gardens, borders, and naturalized landscapes. The rich texture and year-round presence of its fronds provide depth and structure in a variety of garden settings.
DESCRIPTION
Blechnum chilense, commonly known as the Chilean hard fern, is a bold evergreen fern with large, leathery fronds that create a lush, tropical appearance. The fronds emerge as a bright coppery-red before maturing to deep green, adding seasonal interest and contrast. Unlike flowering plants, this fern reproduces via spores found on the undersides of its fronds rather than producing blooms.
Native to Chile and parts of western South America, Blechnum chilense thrives in temperate woodland environments where it forms dense clumps over time. Its robust nature and ability to create a dramatic foliage display make it a valuable choice for shaded gardens, borders, and naturalized landscapes. The rich texture and year-round presence of its fronds provide depth and structure in a variety of garden settings.
DESCRIPTION
Blechnum chilense, commonly known as the Chilean hard fern, is a bold evergreen fern with large, leathery fronds that create a lush, tropical appearance. The fronds emerge as a bright coppery-red before maturing to deep green, adding seasonal interest and contrast. Unlike flowering plants, this fern reproduces via spores found on the undersides of its fronds rather than producing blooms.
Native to Chile and parts of western South America, Blechnum chilense thrives in temperate woodland environments where it forms dense clumps over time. Its robust nature and ability to create a dramatic foliage display make it a valuable choice for shaded gardens, borders, and naturalized landscapes. The rich texture and year-round presence of its fronds provide depth and structure in a variety of garden settings.
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Family: Blechnaceae
Height: 3 to 5 feet
Width: 3 to 5 feet
Foliage color: Evergreen; new fronds emerge orange-bronze, maturing to dark green
Flower color: Non-flowering fern
Bloom time: Not applicable
Light requirements: Partial shade to full shade
Water requirements: Regular
Maintenance: Low; in colder climates, leaving fronds as mulch in winter can be beneficial
Growing zone: USDA zones 7a to 10b
Wildlife attractors: Not applicableThis plant can be seen at the Washington Park Arboretum.
