Plants in family cystopteridaceae
Cystopteris protrusa
Cystopteris protrusa is a common North American fern, forming large, dense colonies in moist woodlands. This spring ephemeral features narrow, lacy fronds and grows up to 1 foot tall, spreading to 5 feet wide. It is a compact groundcover that thrives in part sun to light shade and is resistant to deer and rabbits.
Gymnocarpium dryopteris
Gymnocarpium dryopteris, also known as the oak fern, is a delicate fern with tripinnate leaves, making it a charming groundcover. It has a circumpolar range and prefers moist, acidic soils, thriving in woodland gardens. This deciduous fern reproduces via spores and is widespread in North America and Eurasia, adding a touch of natural elegance to shaded garden areas.
Cystopteris tennesseensis
Cystopteris tennesseensis, known as Tennessee Fragile Fern, is a rare lithophytic fern native to the eastern United States. It grows on calcareous rock ledges and cliffs, forming slowly spreading patches. The fern features 1-foot long deciduous fronds and is part of the Cystopteris hybrid complex.
Cystopteris bulbifera
Cystopteris bulbifera, a fern native to eastern Canada and the United States, thrives on calcareous substrates like limestone. This low-growing rock fern forms a 12-inch tall by 24-inch wide clump and features cutleaf light green foliage. It produces bulblets along its fronds in late summer and is known for its ability to hybridize with other Cystopteris species. The fern is well-suited for shaded areas and can add a touch of greenery to rock gardens.