fern

Blunt-lobed Cliff Fern

Woodsia obtusa

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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

Water

Moist

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Eastern North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Woodsia obtusa, commonly known as Blunt-lobed Woodsia, is a fern characterized by delicate, finely divided fronds with a lush green appearance and a compact, clumping growth habit. This species is notable for its ability to thrive in rocky, shaded environments and its tolerance of dry conditions, making it an excellent choice for shaded rock gardens and woodland settings.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides lush, evergreen foliage with a soft texture, ideal for shaded gardens.

Helps retain soil moisture and prevent erosion on shaded slopes.

Supports shade-loving insects and provides habitat for small wildlife.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Tuck spores into moist, well-drained soil in spring.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
Keep soil consistently moist and shaded for optimal growth.
Transplant in early spring after last frost.
Mulch around base to retain moisture, expect growth in 6 weeks.
Divide clumps every 3-4 years for rejuvenation.

Pro Tip

Ensure shaded, moist soil for best fern health.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Provide shade during hot summer days
Mulch to retain soil moisture

Don't

Avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves ❌
Do not let soil dry out completely
Over-fertilize, which can cause fungal issues

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 garden bedEvergreen groundcover in moist areas

Companion Plants

Hostas Astilbes Solomon's Seal Japanese Fern

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Blunt-lobed Cliff Fern questions

What zones can Blunt-lobed Cliff Fern grow in?

Blunt-lobed Cliff Fern is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Blunt-lobed Cliff Fern deer resistant?

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

When does Blunt-lobed Cliff Fern bloom?

Blunt-lobed Cliff Fern typically blooms in early spring through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Blunt-lobed Cliff Fern need full sun?

Blunt-lobed Cliff Fern does best in part shade.

Is Blunt-lobed Cliff Fern drought tolerant?

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