Plants in family dennstaedtiaceae
Paesia scaberula
Paesia scaberula, a creeping fern native to New Zealand, thrives in sunlit, dry, rocky cliffs and open areas. It forms a deciduous, rhizomatous patch with finely divided, yellow-green fronds and brown stalks. The foliage emits a pleasant smell when crushed or wet, making it a distinctive addition to gardens. This fern is well-suited for drought-tolerant and fairy garden settings.
Microlepia strigosa
Microlepia strigosa is a fern indigenous to the Hawaiian islands and other tropical regions, known for its coarse, light to medium green fronds that can grow over 3 feet long. This plant was used by Early Hawaiians for decoration and believed to have medicinal properties. It forms a wide-spreading clump and remains evergreen above 10 degrees Fahrenheit, making it a versatile choice for gardens.
Dennstaedtia wilfordii
Dennstaedtia wilfordii is a fern species native to Asia, from Pakistan to Japan. It features a short, creeping rhizome and lacy fronds that can reach 10 inches tall and 1 inch wide over five years. This fern thrives in light shade and is well-suited for dry shade gardens. Its delicate fronds add a soft texture to garden landscapes, making it a popular choice for those seeking a low-maintenance, shade-loving plant.
Dennstaedtia punctilobula 'Sohuksan'
Dennstaedtia punctilobula 'Sohuksan' is a deciduous groundcover fern native from Siberia to Taiwan. It is known for its deer-resistant and sun-tolerant nature, making it a reliable choice for gardens. This fern spreads slowly, forming a dense mat that provides excellent coverage. It thrives in both sun and shade, adding texture and greenery to various garden settings. 'Sohuksan' is a versatile plant suitable for cottage gardens, living walls, and shade perennials.
Microlepia strigosa 'Shishi'
Microlepia strigosa 'Shishi' is a compact fern with congested green pinnae, forming an 18-inch tall and 2-foot wide clump. It is evergreen above 10°F and becomes tardily deciduous below this temperature. This lacy specimen is suitable for shaded areas and adds a delicate texture to gardens.
Microlepia strigosa 'Macfaddeniae'
Microlepia strigosa 'Macfaddeniae' is a tardily deciduous fern that forms a slowly spreading patch with narrow, arching fronds. It is easy to grow and vigorous, thriving in part sun to light shade. This fern is ideal for cottage gardens and living walls.
Dennstaedtia punctilobula
Dennstaedtia punctilobula, also known as Hay-scented Fern, is a graceful, airy plant with vibrant green, fragrant fronds. Its triangular leaves have deeply cut leaflets and turn golden-russet in fall. This perennial deciduous fern is native to the Northeastern US and Eastern Midwest, thriving in a wide range of conditions from full shade to full sun. It is low maintenance, disease-free, and deer and rabbit resistant.