Woodwardia orientalis
oriental chain fern
An evergreen fern with large, arching, divided fronds forming a plant to 1.5m tall and 2m wide. New fronds emerge a red to coppery orange colour before maturing to glossy green. Tiny plantlets are produced on the upper surface of the fronds
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Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
1.5–2.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Orange Red Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | |||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H3Botanical details
- Family
- Blechnaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Woodwardia are robust rhizomatous ferns with deciduous or evergreen, pinnate to bipinnate fronds, bearing spores in chain-like lines on the undersides
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- China, Japan, Philippines, Taiwan
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in neutral, moderately fertile damp soil in partial shade; in frost prone areas shelter from cold, drying winds and protect in winter with a dry mulch. See how to grow tender ferns outdoors for further advice
Propagation
Propagate by spores; sow spores at 16°C in late summer or early autumn. Remove plantlets in autumn or divide in spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Architectural
- Cottage and informal garden
- City and courtyard gardens
- Patio and container plants
- Flower borders and beds
- Wall side borders
Pruning
Cut down old fronds when they deteriorate
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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