Mountain fern
Oreopteris limbosperma · Thelypteridaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant mountain fern: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Adult size
- 30 to 60 cm in height
- Growth
- Moderate
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to -20°C)
- Origin
- Europe (mountainous and humid regions)
- Soil type
- Acidic to neutral, rich in organic matter
- Exposure
- Shade to partial shade
Care
Watering
The mountain fern appreciates constantly moist but not waterlogged soil. Water regularly during the growing period (spring and summer), ensuring adequate drainage. In autumn and winter, reduce watering without letting the soil dry out completely.
Exposure and light
Prefer a shaded to partially shaded location, reproducing the conditions of mountain understory. Avoid direct sun which dries out the delicate foliage. A spot sheltered from strong winds is beneficial.
Soil and substrate
Grow this fern in soil rich in organic matter, acidic to neutral, and well-draining. Enrich the soil with compost or peat before planting. A mulch of fallen leaves helps maintain moisture and acidity.
Pruning and cleaning
No pruning is necessary. Simply remove damaged or dead fronds in early spring. Leave withered fronds in autumn to protect the underground crown from the cold.
Fertilization
An undemanding fern that doesn't require regular fertilization. An annual application of well-decomposed compost at the base in spring is sufficient to maintain its vigor.
Pests and diseases
Very resistant, it can however suffer from red spider mites in very dry conditions. Maintain adequate ambient humidity and avoid overhead watering which favors certain fungi. Good drainage prevents root rot.
Did you know?
The mountain fern was once used in traditional Alpine medicine as a vermifuge. Its scientific name Oreopteris means "ear fern" in reference to its ear-shaped pinnules, while limbosperma evokes the characteristic bordered spores that allow it to reproduce in humid and cold environments.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Phegopteris connectilisPhegopteris connectilis
- Marsh fernThelypteris palustris
- Amauropelta noveboracensisAmauropelta noveboracensis
- Christella dentataChristella dentata
- Broad beech fernPhegopteris hexagonoptera
- SwordfernMacrothelypteris torresiana
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.