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Ovate-leaf Cliffbrake 'Longhorn Caverns'

Pellaea ovata 'Longhorn Caverns'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Fern

Height

12 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Pellaea ovata, also known as the Longhorn Caverns Fern, is an evergreen fern with delicate, lacy leaves. This particular cultivar, Longhorn Caverns, is noted for its resilience and ability to thrive in drier conditions compared to typical ferns.

Uses & Benefits:

Adds lush, green texture to shaded gardens, creating a natural, woodland aesthetic.

Helps retain soil moisture in shaded, damp areas.

Provides habitat for beneficial insects and small wildlife.

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 a shaded spot, mist regularly for 6 weeks.
Transplant seedlings once established into a shaded garden bed, keep soil moist.
Fertilize lightly during active growing season with diluted liquid fertilizer.
Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Divide clumps in early spring every 2-3 years for rejuvenation.
Prune dead or damaged fronds to promote healthy growth.

Pro Tip

Maintain consistent moisture and avoid direct sunlight for best fern health.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Keep soil evenly moist 🌱
Provide indirect light
Use organic compost annually
Regularly check for pests

Don't

Avoid direct sunlight ❌
Do not let soil dry out completely
Refrain from over-fertilizing
Avoid heavy, waterlogged soil

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland gardenMoist, fern-covered border

Companion Plants

Hosta Trillium Astilbe Japanese painted fern

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Ovate-leaf Cliffbrake 'Longhorn Caverns' questions

What zones can Ovate-leaf Cliffbrake 'Longhorn Caverns' grow in?

Ovate-leaf Cliffbrake 'Longhorn Caverns' is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Ovate-leaf Cliffbrake 'Longhorn Caverns' deer resistant?

Yes — Ovate-leaf Cliffbrake 'Longhorn Caverns' is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

Does Ovate-leaf Cliffbrake 'Longhorn Caverns' need full sun?

Ovate-leaf Cliffbrake 'Longhorn Caverns' does best in part shade.

Is Ovate-leaf Cliffbrake 'Longhorn Caverns' drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Ovate-leaf Cliffbrake 'Longhorn Caverns' handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.