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Hairy Lip Fern

Cheilanthes lanosa

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Fern

Height

12 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low to Medium

Humidity

Tolerates low humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Eastern and Central North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Cheilanthes lanosa is a fern characterized by delicate, finely divided fronds that form dense, lush clumps, with a tendency to grow in rocky or well-drained environments. This species is notable for its silvery, woolly hairs on the fronds, which provide a soft texture and help it tolerate dry, exposed conditions.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides delicate, fern-like foliage adding texture to shaded areas.

Drought tolerant once established, requiring minimal watering.

Supports local insect populations and provides habitat in shaded gardens.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

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Planting

How to Grow

Tuck spores into well-draining soil in early spring
Keep soil moist but not waterlogged for 6 weeks
Place in partial shade for optimal growth
Mist leaves regularly to maintain humidity
Mulch around base to retain moisture
Divide clumps every 2-3 years in early spring

Pro Tip

Maintain consistent moisture and partial shade for best results

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch to retain soil moisture
Provide partial shade during hot afternoons

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Do not expose to direct, harsh sunlight
Refrain from dry soil conditions

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Mulch
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland borderMoist shady garden cornerTextural groundcover under trees

Companion Plants

Hostas Ferns Astilbe Solomon's Seal Ligularia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Hairy Lip Fern questions

What zones can Hairy Lip Fern grow in?

Hairy Lip Fern is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Hairy Lip Fern deer resistant?

Yes — Hairy Lip Fern is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Hairy Lip Fern bloom?

Hairy Lip Fern typically blooms in mid-summer through mid-summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Hairy Lip Fern need full sun?

Hairy Lip Fern does best in part shade.

Is Hairy Lip Fern drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Hairy Lip Fern handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.