Blechnum spicant

hard fern

• Position: partial or deep shade
• Soil: moist, humus-rich, acid soil (or a mixture of 1 part lime-free loam, 1 part medium-grade bark chippings and 1 part charcoal, two parts sharp sand, 3 parts coarse leafmould for container- grown specimens)
• Rate of growth: average
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  As they age the feathery, dark green fronds of this handsome, evergreen 'hard fern' spread semi-horizontally to form an attractive, rosette-like shape. One of our recommended varieties, it provides all-year interest for shady areas of the garden and companionship for shade-loving, woodland plants..
  
  
• Garden care: Incorporate lots of well-rotted leaf mould, composted pine needles or garden compost into the planting hole.