Woodwardia fimbriata

Woodwardia fimbriata is one of the largest herbaceous ferns in a temperate climate. Native to moist coniferous forests in North-West America, this fabulous botanical species evokes the splendor of ancient forests and the vastness of the New World. Emerging from young shoots that are almost red, its deeply cut fronds unfold into large fronds of light green colour, then becoming a vibrant green, shining as if wet. It forms a magnificent clump, with a spreading habit, more or less evergreen depending on the severity of the winter. This very powerful species makes a remarkable specimen in the garden or on the patio, where it should be given a prime location. It can be grown in shade or partial shade, in deep, moist and fertile soil, which is not too chalky.

Woodwardia fimbriata is a terrestrial fern belonging to the Blechnaceae family, native from British Columbia to California. This fern has a powerful and ascending rhizome, densely covered with brown scales. It has a fountain-like habit, easily reaching 1.50 m (5ft) in all directions. Its immense fronds can reach 2m (7ft) in length. The green stipe (sort of false trunk) represents 1/3 of the length of the frond. The intense and glossy lamina, lanceolate in shape, is slightly narrowed at the base and divided into alternate pinnae, which are themselves divided into pointed lobes with finely toothed margins. The young fronds are erect, but gracefully arch over time, forming a beautiful vegetal fountain. In this species, the linear spore sacs (sori) are arranged in parallel chains along the central vein, on the upper surface of the lamina. The foliage often disappears in winter due to the cold. This fern is hardy to about -12°C (10.4°F), if its base is protected by a thick mulch.

Woodwardia fimbriata is an exceptional plant, which can be planted as a focal point on a shaded patio, in a very large container. Planted at the edge of woodland, alone, or in groups of three individuals along a path, it will accompany other giant plants that, like it, appreciate moisture and filtered light: Gunnera, Rheum, Cimicifuga racemosa atropurpurea, Hosta 'Empress Wu', Rodgersia, Ligularia... It can also be placed near a water feature, reflecting its architectural silhouette. The miracle of its croziers emerging from the ground always intrigues, and will greatly amuse children. Then unfolds the spectacle of its fronds unfurling into large plumes that make the light sing...