FERN: A fern is any one of a group of about 12,000 species of plants. Unlike mosses they have xylem and phloem (making them vascular plants). They have stems, leaves, and roots like other vascular plants. Ferns do not have either seeds or flowers (they reproduce via spores).
Hardy ferns grow best in moist, shady locations with soil high in organic matter. Their varied forms, sizes, and textures add interest to the garden.
Japanese Beech Fern is one of the best hardy ferns we've tried over the years. Thelypteris decursive-pinnata is a vigorous spreader and an excellent choice for a groundcover. Beautiful, with graceful fronds, it produces large colonies in moist or average shade. Its vigorous growth is produced on short runners so it is easily controlled if necessary. Arching fronds are a lustrous dark green and have a lighter green underside for a unique display. Dryopteris marginalis is a clump forming perennial fern with upright feathery fronds. Foliage is twice compound with each impressive frond consisting of many pairs of small narrow leaflets. Foliage is evergreen with a soothing blue green color. This fern thrives in moist loamy soils in dappled sun or partly shaded exposure. Plants are prized for their ability to adapt to difficult dry shaded sites.