Blechnum spicant

Hard fern, Blechnum spicant, has tough leathery, glossy fronds. These are ladder-shaped, and older fronds form a loose rosette around the more upright central ones. It provides year-round interest for a shady spot and works well with other shade-loving, woodland plants. It can also be used in dry stone walls and rock gardens. The Royal Horticultural Society has given it its prestigious Award of Garden Merit (AGM).

Grow Blechnum spicant in well-drained soil in partial to full shade. Mulch annually with leafmould.