Wasowski, Sally and Andy
Woodwardia areolata (L.) T. Moore
Netted chainfern, Chain fern, Netted chain fern
Blechnaceae (Chain fern Family)
Netted chain
fern is a
deciduous, colony-forming, waxy green
fern which stands 1-2 ft. high and has fronds 4-8 in. wide. The sterile fronds are deeply lobed, and the veins in the leaf form a net-like pattern. The fertile fronds are similar but reduced in width. The
entire plant maintains a neat, compact form. Fiddleheads are bronzy and appear in early spring.
Netted chain
fern is a well-mannered
fern, providing a ground cover for wet, shady places. It colonizes by shallow, slender, brown rhizomes.
Image Gallery:
1 photo(s) available
Plant Characteristics
Duration: Perennial Habit: Herb ,
Fern Leaf Retention: Evergreen Size Notes: 12 to 30 inches high
Flower:
Fruit: Size Class: 1-3 ft.
Bloom Information
Bloom Color: Not Applicable
Bloom Notes: Not a flowering plant. Reproduces by spores.
Distribution
USA: AL , AR , CT , DE , FL , GA , IL , IN , KY , LA , ME , MD , MA , MI , MS , MO , NH , NJ , NY , NC , OH , OK , PA , RI , SC , TN , TX , VA , WV , DC
Canada: NS Native Distribution: N.S. through MI & s. IL to MO, s. to FL & TX, Zones 5 to 9
Native Habitat: Swamps, Marshes, Still water edges, Moist woods, Floodplains
USDA Native Status: L48(N), CAN(N) Growing Conditions
Water Use: Medium , High
Light Requirement: Part Shade , Shade
Soil Moisture: Wet , Moist
Soil pH: Acidic (pH<6.8)
Soil Description: Wet, acid soils. Acid-based, Calcareous, Sandy, Sandy Loam, Medium Loam, Clay Loam, Clay. Tolerates brackish soils.
Benefit
Use Ornamental: Water garden, bog, or pond area
Use Wildlife: Provides shelter for frogs, toads, newts.
Interesting Foliage: yes
Last Update: 2011-04-08
