Broad beechfern, which is native to the eastern United States, prefers wet, rich, well-drained, acidic soils in partial to deep shade. It has a creeping rootstock that sends up individual fronds that cluster together. Because they are as wide as they are long, these fronds are remarkable.
I. Appearance and Characteristics
Phegopteris hexagonoptera, commonly called the broad beech fern, is a common forest fern in the eastern United States and adjacent Ontario. It grows from a creeping rootstock, sending up individual fronds that more or less clump. Its native habitat includes moist, undisturbed, hardwood forests.
The fronds are broadly triangular. The specific name hexagonoptera refers to the winging of leaf tissue along the rachis between the basal pinnae.
Phegopteris hexagonoptera (Broad Beech Fern) is a deciduous, rhizomatous fern boasting broadly triangular, twice-pinnate, dull green fronds, 1-2 ft. long (30-60 cm), slightly hairy on the lower surface. They feature 12 or more opposite pairs of pinnae (leaflets) that are tapered at both ends. All the pinnae are connected along the rachis by a narrow wing of blade tissue. The rachis is green and winged with six angles.
Fertile fronds are few, appearing late in the season. Unlike many other ferns, the sterile and fertile fronds of this fern are very similar in appearance. In the fall, the fronds turn pale yellow. The plant dies back in the winter or when it is exposed to too much sun. Broad Beech Fern spreads by both creeping rhizomes and spores and may become aggressive in optimum growing conditions. It is best used for massing as a ground cover in moist, shady woodlands. The shallow rhizomes can be easily dug if the plant gets out of bounds.
II. How to Grow and Care
Broad beechfern thrives in a moisture-rich, shaded environment, typical of its natural understory habitat. Special care points include ensuring sufficient humidity and protection from direct sunlight, which could scorch its delicate fronds. It boasts a notable resilience against pests and diseases, making it an easy-care option for fern enthusiasts.
Sunlight
Broad beechfern thrives in full shade where it receives indirect, filtered sunlight. The optimal light intensity for broad beechfern enables it to grow robustly without the stress of direct sun exposure. Although broad beechfern is tolerant of partial sun, prolonged exposure to brighter conditions can lead to stunted growth and potential leaf scorch. Adaptive traits, such as the plant’s ability to adjust leaf orientation, help mitigate excessive light. Suitable for outdoor growth, broad beechfern should be planted in spots where shadows prevail for most of the day, such as under canopy trees or in northern exposure garden beds.
Watering
Native to moist, shaded forest floors, broad beechfern thrives in environments that mimic the consistent moisture of its natural habitat. This species exhibits a preference for steady humidity and is moderately drought-tolerant. To maintain its lush foliage, broad beechfern benefits from watering twice a week. As an understory plant often found indoors, broad beechfern’s ability to adapt to lower light conditions makes it particularly well-suited for container growth where maintaining soil moisture is key.
Soil
Broad beechfern performs best in humus-rich, moist, neutral to acidic soils.
Fertilizing
For broad beechfern, apply a high-nitrogen liquid fertilizer diluted to half-strength monthly during the growing season, tapering off in fall. Benefits include robust growth and vibrant fronds. Avoid over-fertilization to prevent root burn. Seasonal adjustments ensure broad beechfern receives optimal nutrients without waste or harm. Use proper protective gear when handling fertilizers to maintain a safe gardening environment.
Propagation
A member of the Dryopteridaceae family, broad beechfern is effectively propagated through division. To cultivate broad beechfern, gardeners should identify mature clumps with several fronds. Division is best done by carefully separating the clumps into smaller sections, each with healthy roots and fronds. Replant these divisions into a moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter, situated in a part-shaded environment that mimics broad beechfern’s natural habitat under forest canopies. Consistent moisture is important while new divisions establish.
Transplanting
For broad beechfern, the optimal transplanting window is from the thaw of early spring to the budding late spring, or during the dormancy from late fall into the brisk mid-winter. Ensure a shady, moist location for success. Delicate handling is key to preserving root integrity.
III. Uses and Benefits
This plant is a great choice for cottage gardens, woodland gardens.
