Gymnocarpium robertianum
northern oak fern
A low-growing, deciduous fern that forms a delicate green carpet between 10-40cm in height. Finely divided, soft fronds, up to 14cm long, emerge from a creeping underground network of rhizomes
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | |||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full shade
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Woodsiaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Matforming, Tufted
- Genus
Gymnocarpium are small deciduous ferns with a slender creeping rhizome, and much-divided, triangular to ovate fronds
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Temperate N Hemisphere
How to grow
Cultivation
Grows well in most moist but free draining soil in shade or partial shade. See how to grow ferns for further advice
Propagation
Propagate by sowing spores as soon as ripe, or by division in spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Wildlife gardens
Pruning
No pruning required, but can remove and dead or damaged fronds as required
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
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