Green Cliffbrake
Pellaea viridis 'Boasberg Mountain Form'
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Fern
Height
12 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
8, 9
Water
Low
Humidity
Moderate
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Africa, Asia
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Pellaea viridis is an evergreen to semi-evergreen fern native to Africa and Asia. It features pinnate, leathery, green fronds on dark stems (stipes) and spreads via a creeping rhizome, making it suitable for rock gardens and containers where excellent drainage is provided. The 'Boasberg Mountain Form' cultivar is distinguished by its compact growth and vibrant, uniformly green fronds that enhance its ornamental appeal in shaded garden settings.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck spores into moist, well-draining soil
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity
- Place in partial shade with indirect light
- Water consistently, keeping soil moist but not soggy
- Transplant in early spring after last frost
- Mulch lightly to retain moisture
Pro Tip
Maintain consistent moisture and avoid direct sunlight for best growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
- Provide partial shade during hot afternoons
- Mulch to conserve soil moisture
Don't
- Avoid overwatering which can cause root rot ❌
- Do not expose to direct full sun
- Skip fertilizing during winter
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Green Cliffbrake questions
What zones can Green Cliffbrake grow in?
Green Cliffbrake is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Green Cliffbrake deer resistant?
Yes — Green Cliffbrake is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
Does Green Cliffbrake need full sun?
Green Cliffbrake does best in part shade.
Is Green Cliffbrake drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Green Cliffbrake handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Pellaea to compare
Wright's cliffbrake
Pellaea wrightiana
Purple Cliffbrake
Pellaea atropurpurea
Ovate-leaf Cliffbrake 'Longhorn Caverns'
Pellaea ovata 'Longhorn Caverns'
McLear Fern
Pellaea viridis 'McLear'
Green Cliff Brake
Pellaea viridis 'Stutterheim'
Button Fern
Pellaea rotundifolia
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Grow Green Cliffbrake with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
