Giant Chain Fern

Giant Chain Fern

5 Gallon
$69.90
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Giant Chain Fern
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Giant Chain Fern

Woodwardia fimbriata

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

$69.90
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Description

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.

Quick Facts

  • 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

Faqs

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.

📍 Primary Delivery Area · San Francisco Bay Area

Local delivery across the Bay Area — and beyond.

San Francisco Bay Area is our primary local delivery market. Victory Nursery also serves additional California markets and selected extended delivery areas by arrangement.

Regular local delivery: San Francisco, Peninsula, South Bay, East Bay, Marin, Tracy / Mountain House and surrounding service areas.

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1 Gallon

1 Gallon

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5 Gallon

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A popular size for shrubs, screening plants and young trees. Large enough to make an immediate difference in the garden while still manageable for most residential projects.

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Gallon describes the container size, not a guaranteed plant height. Individual plants vary. Contact our nursery for current measurements.

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