Woodsia obtusa - Blunt-lobed Cliff Fern

Sizes available: 2 quart

Basics: zones 4-8, 12" x 12-36", part to full shade, spreads slowly by rhizomes, wants calcareous to neutral soils

Common names: Blunt-lobed Cliff Fern

Family: Woodsiaceae

Origin/Distribution: native to Maine, but infrequent in New England due to its preference for a lime-y soil.

Habitat: cliffs, rocky sloping, well-drained

More: More information coming soon.

Why grow ferns besides your admiration for a plant that has been present on Earth for over 360 billion years? Ferns support wildlife by creating protective cover and shady, moist micro-habitats, in particular for small mammals and invertebrates. The fuzzy covering on emerging croziers is used by birds for nesting material. Ferns help prevent erosion and filter run-off. For the gardener they offer the gifts of graceful architecture and low-maintenance textural beauty.

Nursery: Van Berkum

Image credit: Jakhouse via Creative Commons through North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox