Hay-scented fern is a lush feathery textured native species with bright green, upright, delicately divided lacey fronds. Tolerant of shady areas, as well as rocky and sandy soils, this hardy fern creeps by rhizomes- forming a verdant groundcover that is not only rabbit- and deer-resistant but excellent for naturalizing shady borders. Earning its common name by emitting a sweet scent of fresh hay when disturbed, hay-scented fern also develops a rich amber coloration during fall.
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Details
Hardiness Zone:
3
Blossom Color:
Growth Habit:
Slow Spreading
Max Height:
2'
Texture:
Fine Texture
Recommended Spacing:
1½' to 2'
We sell this plant in these containers:
#1 Pot
Special Characteristics
Seasonal Effect
Moderate Area
Large Area
Deer Resistant
Sandy Soil Tolerant
Controls Erosion
Moisture Tolerant
Native Species
Features
Bright green, upright, delicately divided fronds emit a sweet scent of fresh hay when disturbed, develops a rich amber color in fall.
Landscape Value
Rabbit and deer-resistant, excellent for naturalizing shady borders.
Care
Watering:
Hay-scented fern requires a fair amount of supplemental watering and often requires watering on a regular basis during the growing season.
Fertilizing:
Hay-scented fern is a moderate feeder, benefiting from a couple of annual applications of slow release fertilizer. A spring application of a 3-1-2 ratio (such as a 15-5-10) can be applied at a rate of about 10 pounds per 1000 square feet, and during early fall, an application of a 2-1-2 ratio (such as a 10-5-10) can be applied to encourage root development and cold hardiness.
Pruning:
Hay-scented fern is a deciduous plant (nonevergreen) and does not require pruning. It is perfectly acceptable to allow the dropped leaves to decompose and nourish the soil.
