Doodia media

Common rasp fern, Hacksaw fern

Synonym:

Blechnum medium

Fern Facts

Evergreen

Hardiness (USDA zones): 8a-10b

Size: 6" - 12"

Size (cm): 15cm-30cm

Height and Spread: Medium - 1' to 3' in height or spread in 5 years

Garden Use: Containers, Ground cover, Rock garden ferns

Origin: Australia, New Zealand, Pacific Islands

Description

Red to pink new fronds appear in late spring to early summer in the Pacific Northwest that slowly mature to a darker green. Rough textured fronds pinnatifid with some netted veins. It has a grooved stipe that grows from a slowly spreading rhizome. Margins of the pinnae are sharply toothed. Sori with indusium that are oblong in shape run in dual rows along the length of the pinnae midribs. Spores are dark brown. Best way to propagate is by dividing rhizomes or grow from spores. 

Grows well when planted in part sun to light shade, humus rich soil can be slightly acidic to neutral with good drainage. Keep moist during the dry periods. It will tolerate short dry spells once established. Regular watering in a rock garden as well as in the woodland garden. Best time to cut out old faded fronds is to wait until new growth emerges. Mulch heavily and protect with fleece in cold snaps.

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