The Story
Plant Bio
Woodwardia areolata, commonly known as netted chain fern, is a deciduous fern distinguished by its large, arching fronds with intricately veined, netted leaf patterns and a lush, green appearance throughout the growing season.
This fern is notable for its ability to thrive in wet, woodland environments and its tolerance for acidic soils, making it an excellent choice for shaded garden areas and naturalistic landscapes.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Fern
Height
24 inches
Width
36 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Water
Moist to wet
Humidity
High
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Eastern North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic
Bloom period
Early spring – Early fall
In flower about 7 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck spores into moist soil in spring, keep consistently damp.
- Mist fronds regularly to maintain humidity.
- Ensure shaded location with rich, loamy soil.
- Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Transplant in early spring or fall for best results.
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years to rejuvenate.
Pro Tip
Maintain consistent moisture and avoid direct sunlight for best growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Keep soil consistently moist 🌱
- Provide shade during hot afternoons
- Mulch to retain soil moisture
Don't
- Avoid direct sun exposure ❌
- Do not let soil dry out
- Over-fertilize, which can cause leggy growth
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
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
Netted Chain Fern questions
What zones can Netted Chain Fern grow in?
Netted Chain Fern is hardy in USDA Zones 4–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Netted Chain Fern deer resistant?
Yes — Netted Chain Fern is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Netted Chain Fern bloom?
Netted Chain Fern typically blooms in early spring through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Netted Chain Fern need full sun?
Netted Chain Fern does best in part shade.
More Woodwardia to compare
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Grow Netted Chain Fern 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.