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Onychium japonicum

carrot fern

A clump-forming, deciduous fern to around 45cm high with wiry, black stems bearing upright to arching, feathery-looking fronds comprising leaflets divided up to three times

Other common names
claw fern
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
5–10 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Green
Autumn Green
Winter
Position
  • Partial shade
Aspect

North–facing or South–facing or East–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H3
Botanical details
Family
Pteridaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Clump forming
Name status

Correct

Plant range
Far East

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in moist but well-drained, humus-rich soil in dappled shade; may not be hardy in colder areas so provide a winter mulch or move container-grown plants inside. See how to grow ferns for further advice

Propagation

Propagate by division or from spores

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Patio and container plants
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

Remove dead or damaged fronds as needed

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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