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Pellaea falcata

sickle fern

An evergreen, tufted fern with erect, dark green, glossy fronds up to 75cm long. Fronds are divided into short, oblong to curved leaflets with margins that are sometimes wavy

Other common names
Australian cliffbrake
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
5–10 years
Ultimate spread
0.5–1 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Sand
Clay
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Green
Autumn Green
Winter Green
Position
  • Partial shade
Aspect

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

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H4
Botanical details
Family
Pteridaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Tufted, Clump forming
Genus

Pellaea can be evergreen or deciduous, tufted ferns with pinnate to tripinnate fronds

Name status

Correct

Plant range
India to Australasia

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in a moist but well-drained soil in partial shade. See how to grow ferns for further advice

Propagation

Propagate by spores

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Patio and container plants
  • Low Maintenance
  • Banks and slopes
  • Flower borders and beds
  • Ground cover
Pruning

Remove dead or damaged fronds

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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