A compact native fern found in moist coastal forests. It adds lushness and texture to shaded areas. Prefers loamy, acidic soil and supplemental water in summer. Plant Characteristics Family Name Blechnaceae Species Name Blechnum spicant Common Name Deer Fern Plant Type Fern Sun Exposure Coast-Shade, Inland-Shade, Water Requirement High Soil Type Loam, medium draining Flower Color None Flowering Months None Evergreen/Deciduous Evergreen Height by Width 2ft. x 2ft. Growth Rate Fast Endangered Not Ranked Growth Habit Clumping, Cold Hardy to 15 degrees F Distribution North Coast, Outer North Coast Ranges, n High Sierra Nevada, Central Coast, San Francisco Bay Area; to AK, ID, Europe, sw Asia, n Africa Natural Habitat Shaded, neutral to acid moist areas; below 5,000' Specialty Features Container Plant Deer Resistant Groundcover
