Blechnum fluviatile
ray water fern
A compact, evergreen fern with central upright fertile fronds surrounded by recumbent sterile fronds. The leaflets are small and ovate and the stems are covered in dark brown bristles
Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Neutral, AcidColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Brown | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Brown | Green | ||
| Autumn | Brown | Green | ||
| Winter | Brown | Green |
Position
- Partial shade
Aspect
West–facing or East–facing or North–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H4Botanical details
- Family
- Blechnaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Genus
Blechnum are mostly evergreen ferns with erect or creeping rhizomes and simply pinnate, leathery fronds, the fertile ones usually erect, the sterile often spreading
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Malesia to New Zealand
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in moist but free draining soil in partial shade. For more information see how to grow ferns for further advice
Propagation
Propagate by division or spores
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Low Maintenance
- Underplanting of roses and shrubs
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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