Giant Chain Fern

1 Gallon

$24.00

1/4

Giant Chain Fern

Woodwardia fimbriata

A majestic, moisture-loving native fern with grand, arching fronds.

$24.00

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Bay Area–Based Nursery

We specialize in plants grown and delivered in their original pots and soil.
Because of their size and weight, our plants are not suitable for long-distance shipping and are delivered locally to ensure health and quality.

While delivery is limited to our local service area, we’re happy to support garden design and plant selection remotely.

For local plant professionals, we’re always glad to connect and explore ways to support your customers.

The Giant Chain Fern is a majestic and architectural native fern of the Pacific Coast, commanding attention with its exceptionally long, glossy, dark green fronds that can form a massive, vase-shaped clump. The common name refers to the chain-like pattern of its sori (spore clusters) on the underside of the fronds. A lover of consistent moisture and shade, it brings a primeval, lush elegance to large woodland gardens, shaded slopes, or the edges of streams and ponds.

Majestic, Arching Fronds: Produces impressive, glossy, dark green fronds that can reach 4-8 feet in length, creating a grand, sculptural presence.
Native Giant for Moist Shade: A superb choice for a lush, naturalistic look in moist, shaded gardens, particularly in its native range along the West Coast.
Loves Consistent Moisture: Requires reliably moist to wet, acidic soil to thrive and reach its full, magnificent potential. It is not drought tolerant.
Excellent as a Focal Point or Backdrop: Its substantial size makes it perfect as a standalone specimen or as a dramatic backdrop for smaller shade-loving plants.
Habitat Value: Provides excellent cover for wildlife in a woodland garden setting.

Knowing how we measure the size?

When browsing our plants, you may notice size terms such as Gallon, Multi, or Stand. These describe how a plant is grown, containerized, or structured at the time of sale — not just its height. Understanding these terms will help you choose the right plant for your space and expectations.

🌱 Gallon Size (Container Size)

Gallon refers to the size of the nursery container the plant is currently growing in (e.g. 1 Gallon, 5 Gallon, 15 Gallon).

A larger gallon size generally means:
- A more established root system
- A sturdier plant
- Faster visual impact after planting
Example:
- 5 Gallon: Ideal for residential gardens, easy to handle, good balance of value and maturity
- 15 Gallon: More mature, provides quicker results in the landscape

Note: Gallon size does not guarantee a specific height, as growth varies by species.

🌳 Multi (Multi-Trunk / Multi-Branch Form)

Multi indicates the plant has multiple trunks or main stems growing from the base.

Commonly used for:
- Ornamental trees
- Feature plants
- Japanese maples, olives, crepe myrtles, etc.
Why choose Multi:
- Fuller, more sculptural appearance
- Strong visual presence even at younger ages
- Popular for design-focused landscapes

🌲 Stand (Single-Trunk / Standard Form)

Stand (short for Standard) refers to a single, dominant trunk with a raised or naturally formed canopy.

Commonly used for:
- Shade trees
- Street trees
- Orchard and structural plantings
Why choose Stand:
- Clean, classic tree form
- Easier clearance for walkways and lawns
- Preferred for long-term structure and uniformity

🌿 Choosing the Right Size

If you want instant impact → larger Gallon, Multi form
If you want long-term structure → Stand form
If you want flexibility and value → mid-size Gallon containers

If you’re unsure which size or form fits your project, our team is happy to help you select the best option based on your space, timeline, and design goals.

Features:Foliage: Fishbone-shaped, leathery dark green fronds with elegant arching form,Fronds: Pinnate compound leaves reaching 3-6 feet in length,Growth Habit: Clump-forming with robust creeping/erect rhizomes covered in brown scales
Mature Height: 4-6 feet
Mature Width: 4-9 feet
Growth Rate: Moderate
Light Needs: Partial to full shade
Key Advantages:Largest native fern in western North America,Striking architectural form,Year-round evergreen foliage in mild climates,Deer resistant,Excellent for erosion control
Preferred Environment:Naturally occurs along stream banks,Thrives in woodland gardens,Ideal for water features

Q: How much space does it need?
A: Give it plenty of room to spread. It can easily grow 6-9 feet wide when mature. Plant it where it won't be crowded by other large plants or structures.

Q: Can it grow in full sun?
A: No. It requires shade, especially in hotter inland areas. Morning sun with afternoon shade or dappled light all day is ideal. Full sun will scorch its fronds.