Common name: deer fern

Family name: Blechnaceae

Description: deeply lobed fronds with dark, chocolate coloured rachis form an arching fern with a medium texture.

Flower: n/a

Foliage: vegetative ferns are vase shaped and fertile fronds are upright; fertile fronds shrivel and break off.

Growing conditions: deep/ filtered shade to part sun; humus rich, well-drained soil; moderate water use.

Height and spread: 0.4-0.7m by 0.3-0.6m

Limitations: rust and scale insects.

Landscape uses: native to Vancouver area, so does well in Vancouver gardens; low maintenance plant, so it is suitable for institutional and public landscapes; good for group or mass plantings;  suitable for small garden spaces, waterside planting, woodland margin.